Cancers that start in the throat, larynx (voice box), pharynx, salivary glands or oral cavity (lip, mouth, tongue) are collectively referred to as head and neck cancers. Cancer of the larynx is the most common.

When patients respond to symptoms by seeking early medical evaluation, their outcome is dramatically improved. Disabilities are far less, and when larynx or voice box cancer is treated in its earlier stages cure rates are 90 percent.

Treatment at The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Cancer Institute is focused on state-of-the-art surgical and radiation therapy techniques to minimize adverse side effects, promote faster healing and bring about higher cure rates. The newest technologies focus on organ preservation and voice restoration, even for advanced tumors. Instead of surgery, the best new treatment option for many patients is chemo-radiation (radiation therapy used in addition to chemotherapy).

Early head and neck cancer symptoms

• Mouth – non-healing ulcers, swelling, spasm of the jaw muscles and pain, including pain in one ear
• Nose and sinuses – discharge from the nose, persistent congestion, problems balancing, facial pain and double vision
• Upper throat and soft palate – sore throat, jaw spasm, pain in the ears, spitting up blood and pain and difficulty on swallowing (onset of symptoms may occur later in disease)
• Larynx – coughing and difficulty breathing

If cancer is suspected, diagnosis usually involves several tests to help determine the extent and size of the cancer’s spread.

Screening Recommendation

Individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer should undergo a yearly AFB (autofluorescence bronchoscopy) exam with an interventional pulmonologist. AFB is a minimally invasive diagnostic and screening tool capable of detecting early squamous cell lung cancer-the same cancer cell type as found in head and neck tumors. The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Cancer Institute at Franklin Square is the only facility in Maryland offering this advanced technology.