Reviewed by Eugene Huang, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Wheelhouse
Head and neck cancers contribute to 4% of all cancers in the U.S. and are diagnosed most often in people over the age of 50 (NCI). We’ll learn about some of the head and neck cancer risk factors, early warning signs, and what to do if you have a diagnosis.
What is head & neck cancer?
Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers in the head and neck region. These cancers include:
- Voicebox
- Throat
- Oral
- Nasal and Paranasal Cavity
- Salivary Gland
What are the early warning signs?
Since cancer develops in different areas of the head and neck region, the following signs and symptoms shared by OncoLink can occur:
- Weight loss from having trouble swallowing food.
- A new lump or sore that doesn’t go away.
- Sore throat.
- Change in voice.
- Pain.
It is important to note that just because you have one or more of these symptoms does not automatically mean that you have head or neck cancer. However, you should consult your primary care physician if you have these symptoms so that you can be educated on what is happening with your body.
What are the risk factors for head & neck cancer?
Tobacco and alcohol use can contribute to developing head and neck cancer risk factors. If you’re currently using tobacco (including smokeless tobacco) or are exposed to secondhand smoke, talk to your primary care physician about ways to quit or what interventions can be made to reduce secondhand smoke.
According to Oncolink, other risk factors are:
- Infection with some strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Head and neck cancers caused by HPV are becoming more common.
- Having a diet high in salt-cured foods.
- Long-term sun exposure to the lip.
- Exposure to substances like asbestos, second-hand smoke, radiation, and wood dust.
- Inactive infection with the Epstein Barr virus.
- Poor dental/oral health.
The National Cancer Institute has an in-depth fact sheet that includes more details about these risk factors and causes: find out more here.
Are there screenings available?
Currently, there are no cancer screenings to detect this kind of cancer. However, routine visits with a dentist should help to recognize abnormalities.
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What if I’m diagnosed with head & neck cancer?
Follow through with the additional tests your provider issues and stay the course through treatment.
Having cancer is scary, but you can be in charge of your medical journey, and you shouldn’t have to walk this road alone.
Wheelhouse members should call 1-833-864-0911 to immediately begin using their cancer benefits. Whether it’s a cancer scare or a confirmed diagnosis, you have a compassionate team of experts ready to help with insurance benefits advocacy, cancer-specific mental & emotional health coaching, and cancer nurse navigation.
Not a Wheelhouse member? Here are some options:
- Explore the resources Wheelhouse offers cancer patients from diagnosis through survivorship on our website.
- Contact us at wheelhousecares.com/contact to see what’s available for you.
- Share with your employer’s HR team how Wheelhouse cancer benefits could impact your cancer journey. We work side-by-side with employers to offer these benefits, often making Wheelhouse support available at no additional cost for employees.
