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Care for Head and Neck Cancer

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AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute

Head and Neck Cancer

Each year, about 110,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with head and neck cancer, a group of cancers that starts in or near your mouth, throat, larynx, nose or sinuses.

At AtlantiCare, we’re committed to helping prevent this disease and bring the latest, most effective treatments to the South Jersey communities we serve. Our dedicated team — including board-certified ear, nose and throat doctors (ENTs), medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons, specialized nurses and other experts — work together to provide comprehensive care, so you can focus on getting well.

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About Head and Neck Cancer

Most head and neck cancers begin in the cells that line surfaces within these areas. There are five main types of the disease, collectively called head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and named for the area they affect:

  • Oral cavity: Lips, gums, inside lining of the cheeks and other areas inside of your mouth
  • Pharynx (throat): Includes your tonsils, back of your tongue and soft palate
  • Larynx (voice box): Holds your vocal cords and epiglottis, a flap of cartilage at the base of the tongue
  • Nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses: Hollow area inside your nose and small spaces in the bones of your head around your nose
  • Salivary glands: In the lower part of your mouth near your jawbone

Each of these types has its own set of symptoms. Though head and neck cancers can affect anyone, major risk factors include heavy tobacco and alcohol use, as well as the human papillomavirus (HPV), one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.

Prevention

Cancer can’t always be prevented, but your risk can be reduced with a healthy lifestyle. Nearly 85% of all head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use, so don’t start smoking. If you already smoke, get the support you need to quit. AtlantiCare offers free tobacco cessation classes, led by instructors who know firsthand the obstacles to quitting and how to conquer them. Sign up now.

Detection

The key to treating — and beating — cancer is to catch it early. If you think you may be at risk, AtlantiCare recommends routine head and neck screenings as part of your annual health exam with your doctor, as well as a yearly routine dental evaluation. Call 1-844-617-1823 to find an AtlantiCare primary care provider near you. If needed, we can also order any follow-up tests and refer you directly to one of our skilled ENTs.

Treatment

If you’re diagnosed with head or neck cancer, rest assured you have some of the Northeast’s leading experts by your side. Our multi-skilled team will work closely with you to create a personalized cancer treatment plan. With state-of-the-art linear accelerators, our radiation oncologists can target tumors with extreme precision, while protecting nearby healthy tissue and critical body structures. And you have access to promising new treatments like immunotherapy and the latest cancer clinical trials.

Support

We’re committed to providing all the education, tools and resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services — from education to rehabilitation, nutritional and spiritual counseling, support groups and more to meet your needs.