Head and neck cancer refers to a group of biologically similar cancers
that start in the lip, oral cavity, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses,
pharynx, and larynx. 90% of head and neck cancers are squamous cell
carcinomas (SCCHN), originating from the mucosal lining (epithelium) of
these regions. Head and neck cancers often spread to the lymph nodes of
the neck, and this is often the first sign of the disease at the time of
diagnosis. Head and neck cancer is strongly associated with certain
environmental and lifestyle risk factors, including tobacco smoking,
alcohol consumption, UV light, particular chemicals used in certain
workplaces, and certain strains of viruses, such as human
papillomavirus. These cancers are frequently aggressive in their
biologic behavior; patients with these types of cancer are at a higher
risk of developing another cancer in the head and neck area. Head and
neck cancer is highly curable if detected early, usually with some form
of surgery, but radiation therapy may also play an important role, while
chemotherapy is often ineffective.
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