Neck and throat cancers usually form in the squamous cells lining the inside of the mouth, nose, and throat. They are highly curable if detected early, and often respond well to surgery or radiation treatment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cancers in this region are classified according to where they are located in the body. They include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oral cavity. <\/strong>This region includes the lips, tongue, hard palate, gums, and mouth. <\/li>
Larynx.<\/strong> Comprised of the vocal cords and epiglottis. <\/li>
Pharynx.<\/strong> There are three sections of the throat: the nasopharynx (the upper portion, located behind the nose), oropharynx (the middle section, which includes the soft palate and tonsils), and hypopharynx (the lower portion). <\/li>
Paranasal sinuses.<\/strong> The nasal cavity.<\/li>
Salivary glands.<\/strong> Located at the bottom of the mouth near the jawbone. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Other types of cancers in close proximity, like brain tumors and thyroid cancer, behave very differently and are not considered cancers of the neck and throat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Causes of Throat Cancer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The majority of neck and throat cancers are caused by tobacco use; smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco both substantially increase your risk of cancer. Alcohol use, especially in people who also smoke, is another contributing factor. Exposure to industrial toxins, a diet high in red meats and processed foods, human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus, and acid reflux can all add to your risk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n