Head and Neck Cancer Australia
Services offered
Cancer information
Support from cancer nurses
Emotional support
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Overview
Head and neck cancers begin in the mouth, throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), nose, sinuses or salivary glands.
The most common head and neck cancers are called squamous cell carcinomas. They start in the thin, flat cells lining these areas of the head and neck.
We have separate information on eye melanoma and brain and thyroid cancers. These are treated differently to head and neck cancers.
A cancer diagnosis can be a shock. Find helpful information in Just diagnosed, or call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to talk it through with our qualified professionals.
Key questions
About head and neck cancer
Understand different types of head and neck cancer, how the mouth, nose, throat and neck areas work, and which health professionals will look after your care.
Questions to ask your doctor
It can be a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your appointments. See our list of questions about head and neck cancer care.
Key steps
Symptoms and risk factors
Learn about head and neck cancer symptoms, and risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use and HPV infection.
Diagnosis and tests
Read about tests used to diagnose head and neck cancers, including physical examinations, imaging scans and biopsies. Test results help find the type and stage of the cancer.
Treatment
Read about common treatments for head and neck cancers, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
Managing side effects
Understand how to manage treatment side effects such as fatigue, mouth problems, swallowing difficulties, speech changes or changes in appearance.
Relevant support
Read cancer information
Trusted cancer information for all people affected by cancer
Need to talk to someone?
We're available 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
