Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Common Type of Head and Neck Cancer Arises From the Cells That Line the Inside of the Nose, Mouth and Throat

 

Cancers of the mouth, sinuses, nose, and throat make up head and neck cancers. The most common type of cancer in the head and neck is squamous cell carcinoma, which arises from the cells that line the inside of the nose, mouth and throat. Overall, 57.5% of global head and neck cancers occur in Asia especially in India. In Japan alone, head and neck cancer accounts for more than 39,000 cases and approximately 10,000 deaths from the disease annually.

Chemotherapy is a common approach in the treatment of head and neck cancer. It uses powerful drugs to attack cancer cells. It is often chosen before or during radiation to improve the effectiveness of care. Chemotherapy is generally prescribed after surgery or other procedures that have affected the cancer cells in the area. It can also be given before surgery in order to minimize side effects or to kill off any remaining cancer cells before chemotherapy starts. Side effects are usually fatigue, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, nausea and vomiting, and shortness of breath.

Radiation therapy is another way that your doctor may suggest treating a head and neck cancer. Radiation therapy is designed to maximize the chances of cure while minimizing side effects. Radiation therapy regimens, or schedules, usually consist of a certain number of treatments administered over a set period of time.. This type of radiation therapy uses high-energy rays (like x-rays) to target the tumors in your head and neck. Many people undergoing radiation therapy to feel some relief from their symptoms immediately after the treatment. Still, radiation therapy is not effective in all cases and can cause side effects, so you should talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of this treatment option.