Head and Neck Cancer

Early detection of upper aerodigestive tract cancer improves prognosis. The primary care physician plays an important role in early detection of these cancers. Most upper aerodigestive tract cancers are squamous cell carcinomas that are linked to tobacco, alcohol, or human papillomavirus exposure. These cancers produce nonspecific symptoms; thus, any persistent oral cavity lesion or neck mass or other unexplainable ear, nose, and throat symptoms should prompt an evaluation for malignancy. Although overall survival has not improved, nonsurgical treatment approaches have led to higher rates of organ preservation and rehabilitation after treatment has improved the quality of life of survivors.