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Head and Neck Cancer
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What is Head and Neck Cancer?
Head and neck cancer happens when abnormal cells grow in the areas of the head or neck. The most common type is called squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the surface cells of places like the mouth, nose, and throat. Because the head and neck contain many important and complex parts, these cancers are often named based on where they begin—such as oral cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, throat cancer, or laryngeal (voice box) cancer.
What Increases the Risk of Head and Neck Cancer?
There are several things that can raise the risk of developing head and neck cancer, including:
- Smoking
- Chewing betel nut
- Drinking alcohol
- Family history and long-term exposure to certain chemicals (like sulfur, nickel, or asbestos)
- Unhealthy diet (eating lots of fatty or sugary foods, pickled or smoked items, fermented soy products, or moldy grains)
In addition to lifestyle habits like tobacco, alcohol, and diet, studies have also shown that infection with HPV (human papillomavirus) can increase the risk of certain types of head and neck cancer, especially those in the throat area.
Common Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer
Symptoms of head and neck cancer can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Some people may notice a persistent sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal, a constant sore throat, or difficulty swallowing. Others might experience changes in their voice, such as hoarseness, or feel swelling in the lymph nodes. Lumps in the face or neck can also be a sign, as well as trouble chewing or a feeling of nasal blockage that doesn’t go away. If any of these symptoms persist, it’s important to see a doctor for proper evaluation.
Proton Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Proton therapy is a modern and highly precise type of radiation treatment. It’s especially helpful for treating head and neck cancers because it can target tumors very accurately while protecting healthy tissue nearby.
This is important in the head and neck area, where many sensitive structures—like the eyes, nerves, vocal cords, salivary glands, and brain—are located close to the cancer. Proton therapy helps doctors deliver strong treatment to the tumor while reducing the chances of side effects such as vision or hearing loss, dry mouth, trouble swallowing, changes in taste.
This is important in the head and neck area, where many sensitive structures—like the eyes, nerves, vocal cords, salivary glands, and brain—are located close to the cancer. Proton therapy helps doctors deliver strong treatment to the tumor while reducing the chances of side effects such as vision or hearing loss, dry mouth, trouble swallowing, changes in taste.
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