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.

You can find out more about symptoms on The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre website here.

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.