Head and Neck Cancer Clinical Resource Area

Most head and neck cancers begin in the cells that line the mucosal surfaces in the head and neck area, such as the mouth, nose, and throat. The majority of head and neck cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. Included are cancers of the oral cavity, salivary glands, paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, larynx and pharynx. Head and neck cancers account for approximately 3 to 5 percent of all cancers in the United States. These cancers are more common in men and in people over age 50. It is estimated that about 39,000 new cases will develop this year.