Head & Neck Cancers
Head & Neck Cancers comprise a group of cancers that develop in the tissues and organs of the head and neck region. These may arise in the oral cavity (mouth, tongue, gums), throat (pharynx), Voice Box (Larynx) with - nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, lips, salivary glands and thyroid gland.
At the Head & Neck Cancers Institute of India (HNCII), we specialize exclusively in the comprehensive management of Head & Neck Cancers. Our institute brings together advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge treatment modalities, and a highly experienced multidisciplinary team dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for patients.
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Most Head & Neck Cancers originate from the squamous cells that line the moist surfaces of the head and neck, such as the mouth, nose, and throat. These cancers may spread locally to surrounding tissues or to lymph nodes in the neck.
Early detection, accurate staging, and personalized treatment planning are critical for improving cure rates and preserving important functions such as speech, swallowing, and appearance.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the site and stage of the cancer. Common warning signs include:
- A mouth ulcer or sore that does not heal
- Difficulty or pain while swallowing
- Persistent hoarseness or change in voice
- A lump or swelling in the neck
- Unexplained ear pain
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Nasal blockage or recurrent sinus infections
If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, medical evaluation is strongly advised.
Risk Factors
Several factors are known to increase the risk of Head & Neck Cancers, including:
- Tobacco use (smoking and smokeless forms)
- Alcohol consumption
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Poor oral hygiene
- Occupational or environmental exposure to harmful substances
Head & Neck Cancers are classified based on the location where they originate. Each type presents unique symptoms, treatment approaches, and outcomes. At the Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India (HNCII), we offer specialized expertise across the full spectrum of Head & Neck Cancers.
Oral Cavity Cancer
Oral cavity cancers develop in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth, and hard palate. These cancers are often linked to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene.
Common symptoms: Non-healing mouth ulcers, pain, bleeding, loose teeth, difficulty chewing or speaking.
Oropharyngeal Cancer
Oropharyngeal cancers arise in the middle part of the throat, including the tonsils, base of the tongue, and soft palate. A significant number of these cancers are associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Common symptoms: Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, neck lump, voice changes.
Hypopharyngeal Cancer
This type of cancer occurs in the lower part of the throat, behind the voice box. Hypopharyngeal cancers are often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to subtle early symptoms.
Common symptoms: Painful swallowing, sensation of a lump in the throat, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss.
Laryngeal (Voice Box) Cancer
Laryngeal cancer affects the voice box and can impact speech, breathing, and swallowing. Tobacco and alcohol use are the primary risk factors.
Common symptoms: Persistent hoarseness, throat pain, breathing difficulty, chronic cough.
Nasal Cavity & Paranasal Sinus Cancer
These cancers originate in the nasal passages or the air-filled spaces around the nose (sinuses). Though rare, they can affect vision, breathing, and facial structure if untreated.
Common symptoms: Nasal blockage, nosebleeds, facial pain or swelling, reduced sense of smell.
Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Nasopharyngeal cancer occurs in the upper part of the throat, behind the nose. It is more common in certain populations and may be linked to viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
Common symptoms: Hearing loss, ear fullness, neck swelling, headaches, nasal congestion.
Salivary Gland Cancer
Salivary gland cancers develop in the glands that produce saliva, such as the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. These tumors can be benign or malignant.
Common symptoms: Painless swelling near the jaw or neck, facial nerve weakness, numbness.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer originates in the thyroid gland located at the base of the neck. It is generally slow-growing and highly treatable when detected early.
Common symptoms: Neck swelling, voice changes, difficulty swallowing, enlarged lymph nodes.
At HNCII, accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Our diagnostic approach includes:
- Advanced imaging (CT, MRI, PET-CT)
- Endoscopic evaluation
- Tissue biopsy and histopathological examination
- Molecular and pathology-guided assessment
This comprehensive evaluation helps determine the exact type, stage, and extent of cancer, enabling precise treatment planning.
Treatment at the Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India is highly individualized and may involve one or more of the following modalities:
Surgery: Expert surgical management including organ-preserving techniques, minimally invasive procedures, and advanced reconstructive surgeries to restore function and appearance.
Radiation Therapy: State-of-the-art radiation techniques designed to effectively target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
Chemotherapy: Systemic therapies used alone or in combination with surgery and radiation to enhance treatment effectiveness.
Targeted Therapy: Advanced drugs that act on specific molecular pathways involved in cancer growth.
Immunotherapy: Modern treatment options that harness the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
HNCII follows a strong multidisciplinary tumor board approach, bringing together:
- Surgical oncologists
- Medical oncologists
- Radiation oncologists
- Radiologists and pathologists
- Speech, swallowing, nutrition, and rehabilitation specialists
This collaborative model ensures seamless, coordinated, and patient-centric care at every stage.
- Exclusive focus on Head & Neck Cancers
- Highly experienced specialist team
- Advanced technology and evidence-based care
- Emphasis on functional and aesthetic outcomes
- Comprehensive rehabilitation and supportive services
At HNCII, our mission goes beyond treating cancer — we are committed to restoring quality of life.
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