Each year, about 38,000 cases of head and neck cancer are diagnosed in America. These cancers affect a number of anatomical sites including:

oral cavity
oropharynx (soft palate, tonsil, base of tongue)
larynx (voice box)
hypopharynx (pyriform sinus, posterior phanryngeal wall, post-cricoid region)
nasal cavity/paranasal sinuses
nasopharynx
salivary glands
paragangliomas (glomus tumors)
thyroid

Treatment of tumors within the anatomical sites of the head and neck has an impact on quality of life, because these structures are required for communication, nourishment and sensation. Their treatment may affect speech, swallowing, taste, smell, vision, hearing, facial expression and appearance.

There are a number of risk factors associated with the development of head and neck cancer, especially the use of tobacco products and frequent consumption of alcohol. (For more information about head and neck cancer risk factors, click here.)

Many of these cancers are curable when diagnosed early; often, the lesions are detected during a dental examination or by the individual. Since many of the symptoms associated with cancers of the head and neck can also be caused by noncancerous conditions, it is very important that you consult a physician if any warning signs persist for several weeks.

Because of the complexity of their location, cancers of the head and neck present a unique challenge to the patient and the physician. The treatment facility you choose is of paramount importance in order to ensure optimum outcome in terms of cure, as well as in maintaining form and function, and preserving your quality of life.

The Ideal Environment for Cure and Care

Continuum Cancer Centers of New York are nationally recognized for providing the ideal environment for patients with head and neck cancer. Our multidisciplinary team has unparalleled experience and expertise in managing all head and neck cancers, including the most complex and difficult to treat.

Our comprehensive program stretches across all of our hospitals. We have outstanding specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, who work in an ideal multi-disciplinary environment. The result is a unified, high-quality standard of care and a broad base for research. Integrating our locations also ensures that when you come in, you can access all the treatment options available.

We develop treatment strategies aimed at a cure, while maximizing preservation of function. That’s an important reason to come to Continuum Cancer Centers of New York. Saving your life is not enough — we also want to preserve your quality of life.