The head and neck cancer care team at Saint Francis includes highly skilled experts in head and neck surgery, medical and radiation oncology, reconstructive surgery, nutrition services, social work, as well as speech, voice and swallowing therapy.

What are Head and Neck Cancers?

Head and neck cancer refers to a group of biologically similar cancers that start in the lips, oral cavity (mouth), nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, pharynx and larynx. They include those cancers affecting the throat, larynx, nose, sinuses and mouth.

Common Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancers

Symptoms include:

• A lump in the neck that lasts more than two weeks
• Changes in your voice that last for more than two weeks
• A growth in the mouth, especially when accompanied by lumps in the neck or any sore or swelling in the mouth that does not go away after a week
• Blood in your saliva or phlegm for more than a few days
• Difficulty swallowing almost every time you try
• Changes in the skin - most often on sun-exposed areas like the forehead, face and ears
• Persistent pain in or around the ear when you swallow, particularly if it is associated with difficulty in swallowing, hoarseness or a lump in the neck

Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment at Saint Francis

The most common type of head and neck cancer are carcinomas (the cellular covering of internal and external body surfaces) of these regions. Head and neck cancer often spreads to the lymph nodes of the neck, which is often the first (and sometimes only) sign of the disease at the time of diagnosis.

Treatment is based on the stage your cancer is in and usually includes surgery, radiation and chemotherapy - or a combination of two or more treatments.

Learn More About Head and Neck Cancers

Prevention and Risk Factors
Screening and Diagnosis
Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers

Learn More About Cancer Services Provided by Saint Francis

For additional information or to schedule a consultation with a cancer specialist, please call the Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688.