Head and Neck Cancer
The Head and Neck Cancer Program at Broward Health is committed to providing expert, comprehensive care for patients with benign or malignant tumors of the head and neck.
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Identifying Head and Neck Cancers
Head and neck cancers include a diverse group of tumors from areas of the upper aerodigestive tract, glands and skin in the head and neck area. Head and neck tumors affect speech, swallowing and everyday social interactions. Effective treatment requires balancing advanced treatments with functional outcomes to optimize your quality of life during and after treatment.
Most upper aerodigestive tract cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which can begin in the squamous cells that line the moist mucosal surfaces inside the mouth, nose and throat. The thyroid gland, salivary glands and parathyroid glands are common sites of head and neck tumors. Head and neck cancers also include skin, muscle and bone cancers arising in the head and neck.
Signs, Symptoms and Causes of Head and Neck Cancers
People at risk of head and neck cancers―particularly those who use tobacco―should discuss screening exams and ways to reduce their risk with their doctor.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Lump or Swelling in the Neck
- Swallowing Problems or Frequent Coughing or Choking with Swallowing
- Change in the Voice, or Progressively Hoarse Voice
- Abnormal Skin Growths or Moles
- Growth or Sore in the Mouth, either Painless or Painful
- Persistent Earache
Potential Causes:
- Alcohol and Tobacco Use, either Smoked or Chewed
- Family History of Thyroid Problems
- High-Risk Strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Underlying Genetic Disorders
- Radiation
Head and Neck Cancer Program at Broward Health
The Head and Neck Cancer Program at Broward Health offers comprehensive, patient-centered care with a multidisciplinary team of experts. Surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pain management physicians and rehabilitation specialists work together to provide advanced treatments and personalized care from diagnosis to recovery. Discover how our dedicated team is committed to helping patients beat cancer together.
Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services and Follow-up Care
Rehabilitation is crucial during and after head and neck cancer treatment to help patients address physical and psychosocial needs. We tailor rehabilitation goals for each patient based on the disease's extent and the treatment a patient has received.
You'll receive full rehabilitation support to return to normal activities as soon as possible. These services include swallowing therapy, lymphedema therapy, nutritional benefits, occupational and physical therapy, social work, palliative, speech therapy and reconstructive surgery.
Comprehensive follow-up care is also critical during and after treatment. Once your treatment is complete, we may conduct imaging studies, and you will have regular, structured follow-up visits with providers for cancer surveillance.
Why Choose Broward Health
At Broward Health, we focus on patient-centered care for head and neck tumors, recognizing the impact on crucial functions like speaking and swallowing. Our multidisciplinary team employs innovative treatments such as minimally invasive techniques, robotic surgery and advanced radiation and immune-based therapies to effectively combat cancer. Our surgical care team prioritizes cutting-edge methods, including robotic and endoscopic surgery, to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
