Head and neck cancer
(Redirected from Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma)
Definition[edit | edit source]
Cancer that emerges in the various anatomical structures of the head or neck.
Areas Affected[edit | edit source]
- Nasal cavity: The space inside the nose.
- Sinuses: Air-filled spaces around the nose.
- Lips: External opening of the mouth.
- Mouth: Including the oral cavity.
- Salivary glands: Glands responsible for saliva production.
- Throat: The passage leading from the mouth to the stomach and lungs.
- Larynx: Also known as the voice box.
Risk Factors[edit | edit source]
- Tobacco Use: Principal risk factor for head and neck cancers.
- Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use can increase the risk.
- HPV infection: Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus.
- Ultraviolet Light Exposure: Sun exposure or exposure to artificial UV rays, a major cause of lip cancer.
- Occupational Exposures: Including exposure to wood dust, formaldehyde, asbestos, nickel, and other chemicals.
- EBV virus: Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus can increase risk.
- Radiation: Prior radiation treatments to the head and neck region.
HPV and Head and Neck Cancer[edit | edit source]
Approximately 70% of cancers in the oropharynx are attributable to HPV.
Sex Ratio and Age[edit | edit source]
Men are about twice as likely as women to be diagnosed with head and neck cancers, and these cancers are more common in individuals over 50 years of age.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Dependent on the area affected:
- Mouth: White or red sores, swelling in the jaw, unusual bleeding or pain, and problems with dentures.
- Pharynx: Difficulty breathing or speaking, pain or ringing in the ears, trouble swallowing.
- Larynx: Pain when swallowing, ear pain.
- Sinuses and Nasal Cavity: Chronic sinus blockage, frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, headaches, and dental problems.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures include:
- Avoiding tobacco products.
- Limiting alcohol consumption.
- Considering HPV vaccination.
- Using protective measures during oral sex.
- Using sun protective measures, such as lip balm with sunscreen.
- Regular dental check-ups to detect early signs.
See Also[edit | edit source]
| Head and neck cancer Resources | |
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