Head and neck cancer refers to a group of several types of cancer that often involves the lining of the mouth, throat or voice box. Although rare, head and neck cancer can develop in the salivary gland or the sinuses. These cells are known as squamous cells and are then classified as squamous cell carcinoma once they transition into cancer cells.
Some of the types of head and neck cancer are:
In Singapore, more than 800 new head and neck cancer cases are diagnosed annually, with nasopharyngeal cancer ranked as the 8th most common type of cancer among Singaporeans. As with other types of cancer, head and neck cancer carries the threat of metastasising to the lymph nodes in the upper part of the neck.
In Singapore, doctors rely on the TNM staging system to classify head and neck cancers. The system helps doctors identify which stage the cancer is at by referring to:
Once these pieces of information are collected, your medical provider will then proceed to stage head and neck cancer as per the following:
Pre-cancerous Stage | Stage 0: Carcinoma in Situ | At this stage, abnormal cells are present in the lining of the affected area, but they remain contained (in situ) and have not yet spread. If left untreated, these cells are highly likely to develop into cancer. |
Early Stages | Stage 1 | The cancer is in its early stages. The cancer measures no more than two centimetres and has not spread to the lymph nodes. |
Stage 2 | The cancer is larger than two centimeters but no more than four centimeters. Like Stage I, it has not yet reached the lymph nodes. | |
Advanced Stages | Stage 3 | The tumour is either larger than four centimetres or has spread to a lymph node on the same side of the neck. The affected lymph node is smaller than three centimetres. |
Stage 4 |
The cancer range in sizes, and may spread to:
|
Although experts are unsure what exactly causes head and neck cancer, some studies highlighted that the disease occurs when cells in regions, such as the mouth, throat, and voice box, experience genetic mutations, causing them to grow uncontrollably.
Additionally, the primary risk factors for head and neck cancer are alcohol and tobacco use, which increases the likelihood of developing cancers in areas like the oral cavity and hypopharynx (the bottom part of the throat). In fact, most squamous cell carcinomas in the mouth and voice box are linked to these substances. Aside from tobacco use, and alcohol consumption, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a significant risk factor for oropharyngeal cancers, which affect the tonsils and base of the tongue.
While tobacco, alcohol, and HPV are key causes, experts have yet to come to a conclusive decision on all the factors involved in the formation of head and neck cancers. However, what is known is that genetic changes in the DNA of cells in the head and neck area can lead to unchecked growth, allowing cancerous cells to multiply rapidly, form tumours, invade healthy tissue and potentially spread to other parts of the body.
There are certain groups of people who are more prone to developing head and neck cancer. This includes:
Some of the common symptoms of head and neck cancer include, but are not limited to:
Although these symptoms are universal and can indicate a multitude of other medical conditions, it is important to seek medical attention to receive a proper diagnosis.
If you have been experiencing some of these symptoms, contact us today to schedule an examination.
Early detection is crucial when it comes to preventing and treating head and neck cancer. At NC Tan Surgery, we utilise an array of diagnostic methods to detect the disease, including but not limited to:
Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, our doctor will outline a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan to effectively treat head and neck cancer. Some of the treatment options that are available are:
At NC Tan Surgery, we strive to provide our patients with high standards of comprehensive care, while offering comfort and ease. If you have recently been diagnosed with head and neck cancer or would like to seek a second opinion, schedule an appointment with us to speak to our specialist today.
Yes, there are some side effects to consider. Some of the side effects may include:
You will be guided closely on how to navigate these side effects should they affect you personally. It is important to note that every patient experiences cancer treatment differently.
You can prevent head and neck cancer by taking some of these precautionary measures:
The primary differences between the three are:
Characteristics | Head and Neck Cancer | Head and Neck Tumour | Head and Neck Lump |
Definition | A malignant growth that occurs in the head and neck region, including the throat, mouth, and nose. | An abnormal growth in the head and neck region that is often benign (non-cancerous). | Swelling or masses in the head and neck, often associated with various conditions, both serious (e.g., cancer) or benign (e.g., infections). |
Causes | Primarily caused by tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HPV infection, and genetic factors. | Caused by uncontrolled cell growth, with different triggers depending on the type. | May be caused by infections, inflammation, cysts, or other benign conditions; sometimes can indicate cancer. |
Prognosis | Prognosis varies based on cancer type, stage, and response to treatment. Early detection improves outcomes. | Benign tumours have excellent prognosis. | Lumps caused by infections or benign conditions generally have a good prognosis, while cancerous lumps require treatment for better outcomes. |
1 Farrer Park Station Road
#14-02 Connexion Singapore 217562
Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Saturday 8:30am - 12:30pm
Sunday & PHs Closed