Head and Neck Cancers Patient Resource Area - Head and Neck Cancer is the term given to a variety of cancers that may occur in the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat, sinuses, larynx, thyroid, and salivary glands. Head and neck cancers are treated by otolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 30,000 Americans will be diagnosed with head and neck cancer this year.

Head and Neck Cancer Clinical Resource Area - Most head and neck cancers begin in the cells that line the mucosal surfaces in the head and neck area, such as the mouth, nose, and throat. The majority of head and neck cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. Included are cancers of the oral cavity, salivary glands, paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, larynx and pharynx. Head and neck cancers account for approximately 3 to 5 percent of all cancers in the United States. These cancers are more common in men and in people over age 50.