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 brain, eye 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.
What's in this booklet
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.
Symptoms and risk factors
Learn about head and neck cancer symptoms, and risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use and HPV infection.
Diagnosis
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 like fatigue, mouth problems, swallowing difficulties, speech changes or changes in appearance.
Life after treatment
Adjusting to life after head and neck cancer treatment takes time. Find out about follow-up appointments, and ongoing side effects and changes.
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.
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