Know About The Types Of Head And Neck Cancer

According to the National Cancer Registry Program (NCRP) of India, head and neck cancer is the most common type of cancer in India, accounting for 30% of all cancer cases reported in the country. Worldwide, 562,328 people were diagnosed with head and neck cancer in 2020. Tobacco usage, including chewing tobacco and smoking, is the triggering cause of head and neck cancer in India, with an estimated 90% of head and neck cancers in the country. Alcohol use is also a significant risk factor. This blog will explore head and neck cancer types and risk factors. 
 

Types Of Head And Neck Cancer 

Head and neck cancer develops in the tissues of the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat, larynx, salivary glands, nasal cavity, and sinuses. These types of cancer can affect anyone but are more commonly found in individuals over 50. There are several types of head and neck cancer, which are named based on the head and neck area where they originate and the type of cell affected. Some common types of head and neck cancer include:

• Laryngeal cancer
• Nasopharyngeal cancer
• Hypopharyngeal cancer
• Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer
• Salivary gland cancer
• Oral cancer
• Oropharyngeal cancer
• Tonsil cancer

Laryngeal Cancer

Laryngeal cancer develops in the tissues of the larynx, or voice box, located in the throat. The larynx has vocal cords, which help produce sound when air passes through them. The actual cause of this cancer is not fully understood. Still, it is believed to be linked to certain risk factors, including tobacco use (including smoking and chewing tobacco), excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to certain chemicals and irritants in the workplace, such as asbestos and wood dust. Performing a diagnostic test to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A test involves,

• Imaging tests (CT or MRI scans)
• A physical exam
• Biopsy

Nasopharyngeal Cancer 

It develops in the nasopharynx, the area back of the nose, and above the back of the throat. It is a relatively rare type of cancer, but it is common in certain parts of the world, such as Africa and Asia. The diagnosis of nasopharyngeal cancer is the same as that of laryngeal cancer. The actual cause of this type of cancer is not fully understood. It is believed to be linked to several risk factors, including, 

• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) Infection
• A family history
• Consumption of certain foods (salted fish and preserved vegetables)

Hypopharyngeal Cancer 

Hypopharyngeal cancer develops in the hypopharynx, the bottom part of the throat that lies next to the larynx or voice box. Hypopharyngeal cancer is relatively rare, occurring only in a small percentage of head and neck cancers. Several risk factors contribute to this cancer which include,
 

• Poor nutrition
• Exposure to certain chemicals and irritants
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Consumption of tobacco and alcohol
   

Nasal Cavity And Paranasal Sinus Cancer 

Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer develop in the tissues of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled spaces behind the nose and forehead. This type of head and neck cancer is rare and uncommon. Several risk factors include, 

• Exposure to certain chemicals and irritants (wood dust, nickel, formaldehyde)
• Radiation exposure

Salivary Gland Cancer

Salivary gland cancer is one of the uncommon types of head and neck cancer that develops in the salivary glands located in the mouth and throat and produces saliva. There are several different types of salivary gland cancer, such as benign tumors, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, acinic cell carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, etc., with different characteristics and treatment options. Some of the risk factors for this condition are, 

• Radiation exposure
• Past benign salivary gland tumor
• Genetic conditions
• Chemical exposure (asbestos or radon)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Oral Cancer 

Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that develops in the mouth's tissues, including the lips, tongue, gums, and lining of the cheeks. Among men, oral cancer is the ninth most common cancer. It is also sometimes referred to as oral cavity cancer. Risk factors include,

• Tobacco and alcohol use
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• A weakened immune system
• Poor oral hygiene.
   

Oropharyngeal Cancer 

Oropharyngeal cancer is one of the types of head and head cancer that develops in the oropharynx, the certain part of the throat that includes the back of the tongue, soft palate, tonsils, and pharynx walls. The most common type of this cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the thin, flat cells that line the throat. The main risk factors for developing oropharyngeal cancer include,
 

• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

Tonsil Cancer 

It is a form of oropharyngeal cancer that develops in the tonsils behind the throat. Also known as "palatine tonsils," they help the body recognize and defend itself against germs. Treatment options for laryngeal cancer may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or surgery alone or in combination. The risk factors for developing tonsil cancer include,

• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection,
• Family history
• Age factor

Cancer Is A Word, Not A Death Sentence

In conclusion, with modern treatments and advanced technology, various options are available to effectively treat these types of head and neck cancers. Treatment plans will vary depending on the specific type and stage of cancer and individual patient factors. Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are all viable treatment options that may be used alone or in combination. Additionally, supportive care, such as pain management and nutritional support, can be important to the treatment plan. Patients must work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their needs and goals. When head and neck cancer is detected early and treated comprehensively, patients have a good chance of a favorable prognosis and can expect to live healthy, fulfilling lives. 

Frequently Asked Question 
 

What is the difference between oropharyngeal cancer and oral cavity cancer? 

Oropharyngeal cancer affects the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue, the tonsils, and the soft palate. On the other hand, oral cavity cancer affects the mouth, including the gums, tongue, lips, cheeks, and roof of the mouth.

How can radiation exposure trigger head and neck cancer? 

Radiation exposure can trigger the development of head and neck cancer through several mechanisms. Like,

• It can also cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the tissues it affects. This can cause cellular damage and trigger a cascade of events that ultimately lead to cancer development.
• This exposure can also suppress the immune system, making the body more difficult to detect and eliminate cancer cells.
• Radiation can directly damage the DNA in cells, leading to DNA mutations that can result in uncontrolled cell growth and division, eventually leading to cancer.
   

What is the connection between HPV and head and neck cancer?

A sexually transmitted virus called HPV can infect the tissues lining the mouth, throat, and other body parts. HPV infection can alter cells and may result in cancer growth. According to studies, HPV is increasingly linked to oropharyngeal cancer, especially in younger persons without a history of alcohol or tobacco use. While other HPV strains may potentially be involved, HPV16 is considered to be the most frequently linked to head and neck cancer.

What is the treatment available for head and neck cancer? 

The treatment for head and neck cancer depends on the type, location, stage, and the patient's condition. Treatment options such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or palliative care are available for cancer treatment.