What can be done to reduce the risk of developing a second new cancer?

People who have been treated for head and neck cancer have an increased chance of developing a new cancer, usually in the head and neck, food pipe or lungs. The chance is higher for people who smoke and drink alcohol. Patients who do not smoke should never start. Those who smoke should do their best to quit.

How are head and neck cancers treated?

The treatment plan for an individual patient depends on a number of factors. The patient and the doctor should consider treatment options carefully.

• Surgery is a good way to remove the cancer especially if it has been diagnosed early.

• Radiation therapy involves the use of high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. In general, anticancer drugs affect rapidly growing cells, including blood cells that fight infection.

Warning Signs of Head and Neck Cancer

Having any of the following symptoms for more than three weeks warrants a visit to a head and neck specialist:
A sore on the lip or in the mouth that does not heal

A lump on the lip or in the mouth or throat

A white (leukoplakia) or red patch on the gums, tongue or lining of the mouth

Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in the mouth

A sore throat or a feeling that something is caught in the throat that
Difficulty or pain with chewing or swallowing

Swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable

A change in the voice or hoarseness

Pain in the ear without evidence of local ear problems

Slurred speech

Loose teeth not associated with any gum problems

Swelling, numbness, paralysis of the muscles in the face

Chronic sinus infections that do not respond to treatment with antibiotics

Bleeding through the nose, frequent headaches, swelling or other trouble with the eyes.

These symptoms may be caused by cancer or by other, less serious conditions.