Head and neck cancer - what you need to know
Head and neck cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer but it is becoming more common – especially in some areas of Merseyside.
Around 12,400 new cases are diagnosed in the UK each year and as you get older, you have a higher chance of developing it.
There are more than 30 areas within the head and neck where cancer can develop, including the:
- mouth and lips
- voice box (larynx)
- throat (pharynx)
- salivary glands
- nose and sinuses
- area at the back of the nose and mouth (nasopharynx)
There are a range of symptoms which might be head and neck cancer – but they are much more likely to be something far less serious.
The most common signs of head and neck cancer are a lump on your neck or a hoarse voice, which have not gone away after three weeks, but you can find the full range of symptoms on this NHS website: NHS Head and Neck Cancer
Most people are cured of head and neck cancer if doctors find it early enough – but if you wait until it gets worse, you might not have a full recovery.
How to cut your risk
The best way to reduce the chances of getting head and neck cancer is to cut your risk. You can do this by:
- Quitting smoking
- Cutting down or giving up alcohol
- Not taking illegal drugs
For more information on head and neck cancer, see this Macmillan website: Macmillan Head and Neck Cancer and watch the video below:
Do you need help stopping smoking?
For free support and advice to quit smoking, visit Smokefree Liverpool at their website.