loader image
Monday, October 20, 2025
78.6 F
McAllen
- Advertisement -

Increase your Awareness of Head and Neck Cancers

Translate to Spanish or other 102 languages!

Image for illustration purposes only

Mega Doctor News

- Advertisement -

Newswise — New Brunswick, N.J. – Accounting for approximately four percent of all cancers nationwide according to the National Cancer Institute, head and neck cancer is the term used to describe a number of different malignant tumors that develop in or around the throat, larynx, nose, sinuses and mouth. Even though these cancers are not as prevalent as others, everyone should be aware of risk factors and symptoms.

Risk Factors and Symptoms

Alcohol and tobacco use are major risk factors for head and neck cancers. Infection with cancer-causing types of human papillomavirus (HPV) also increases a person’s risk of certain head and neck cancers.  The areas where these cancers are found support vital bodily functions, such as eating and breathing, so the symptoms of head and neck cancers can be disruptive. The most common symptom of head and neck cancer is swelling or a sore that does not heal. Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing, jaw pain, loosening of the teeth, double vision, persistent nose bleeds or difficulty chewing or swallowing.

- Advertisement -

Detection and Treatment

Individuals can be proactive and self-screen by checking the neck for lumps, bumps or swelling, examining the inside of cheeks and paying attention to the skin in and around the mouth/chin for any changes or abnormalities.  Additionally, regular health appointments provide medical professionals the opportunity to monitor for any abnormalities in the head and neck region.

Head and neck cancer treatment can vary based on the type, location, and extent of the cancer. Often, the recommended approach is surgery. During surgery, the goal is to remove the cancerous tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue without impacting function. Like many cancers, it is sometimes impossible to completely remove the tumor. In cases such as this, surgeries may be paired with radiation therapy or chemotherapy. 

Prevention

- Advertisement -

The majority of head and neck cancer cases are preventable with certain lifestyle modifications. To reduce the chances of developing head and neck cancer, individuals should consider eliminating tobacco use, avoid drinking alcohol and talking to a doctor about vaccines against HPV.  In addition to these steps, individuals should also talk with their doctor about their medical history and lifestyle to determine personal risk of cancer.

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

More Articles

The Human Bean’s “Coffee for a Cure” to Benefit The Renaissance Cancer Foundation, Oct. 17th

The Human Bean located at 1124 E. Nolana in McAllen is inviting coffee-lovers to "drink pink" on October 17 for their annual “Coffee for a Cure” breast cancer giveback event. All food and beverage proceeds on that day will benefit the Renaissance Cancer Foundation, marking The Human Bean’s largest fundraiser of the year.

2025 DHR Health Fashion Show & Gala Honoring Heroic Patients

The Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance was filled with emotion, gratitude, and hope on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, as DHR Health hosted its 2025 Fashion Show & Gala Honoring Heroic Patients. The annual event celebrated breast cancer survivors and highlighted the importance of breast reconstruction awareness, education, and innovation in women’s health care.

STHS Children’s Partners with Spirit Halloween for Pre-Halloween Party for Patients

Due to fears related to any pain they may be experiencing, the unknown environment with strange sounds and unfamiliar faces and separation from family and friends, a hospital stay can result in stress and anxiety in children.

HHSC Encourages Preventive Care During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is encouraging preventive care and screenings for women during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
- Advertisement -
×