Head and neck cancer is the seventh most common cancer worldwide, representing about 4.5% of all cancer diagnoses. Despite treatment advances, many patients, especially those with recurrent or metastatic disease, face poor long-term outcomes and significant symptom and treatment burdens that can impact basic life functions such as speech, swallowing, and taste, and cause fatigue and pain.

“Worldwide, head and neck cancer is the 7th most common cancer overall. It’s the 5th most common cancer in men and the 12th most common in women”

World Cancer Report

Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that form in areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, sinuses, nasal cavity or salivary glands. These cancers can be challenging to treat because they develop in small, complex areas of the body that support essential functions, including breathing, swallowing and speaking.

Most head and neck cancers develop from risk factors such as long‑term exposure to tobacco and alcohol.

A portion of head and neck cancers are related to human papillomavirus (HPV)