Head and neck cancers refer to those cancers that arise in the head and neck region,. Including the sinuses, nasal cavity, salivary glands, mouth, throat, and voice box. They tend to be biologically fairly similar, and thus are often grouped together. The vast majority of head and neck cancers originate from the mucous lining of these areas, and are known as squamous cell carcinomas. Because of their location, they often metastasise into the lymph nodes in the neck area, and it is in this region that head and neck cancers are usually first diagnosed.

Unlike many types of cancer, head and neck cancers are frequently associated with personal and lifestyle risk factors, and are less likely to be associated with genetic factors. These personal and lifestyle-related cancer risk factors include things such as smoking and drinking, exposure to UV light, exposure to chemicals and pollution through one’s occupation, and also the exposure to viruses such as HPV (human papillomavirus).

Head and neck cancers tend to spread quite quickly, and in addition to moving to the lymph nodes, will often present in other areas of the body as secondary cancerous tumours. However, head and neck cancers are relatively easily cured so long as they’re detected early. Surgery is the most common type of approach taking to curing head and neck cancer, although in some instances of head and neck cancer chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be useful in the treatment of this type of cancer.

While some ethnic groups tend to have a higher rate of head and neck cancers, and some viruses and diseases have also been associated with head and neck cancers, including Epstein-Barr virus, and gastroesophegeal reflux, the best way to avoid head and neck cancer occurring is to avoid the risk factors outlined above, as these are highly related to the development of head and neck cancer. By avoiding smoking and drinking, avoiding occupational hazards and avoiding the excessive consumption of read meat, the risk of developing head and neck cancers can be lowered. disease. There is some indication that eating a healthy diet of fresh vegetables and other preservative free items may help ward off occurrences of head and neck cancers.

In addition to being useful as preventative factors, alternative therapies such as following an immune-boosting diet and exercise regimen may also help in slowing the development of head and neck cancers by ensuring that your body is better able to combat head and neck cancers. Further information about alternative therapies as a deterrent and treatment for cancer can be found on this website.