Head and Neck Cancer
Broward Health’s Head and Neck Cancer Program provides expert, comprehensive care for both benign and cancerous tumors affecting the head and neck. Our team is here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment and recovery with skill and compassion.
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
Our Head and Neck Cancer Program brings together a team of specialists to provide expert, patient-centered care. From diagnosis through recovery, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pain management and rehab experts work together to deliver advanced treatment and personalized support. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence and compassion.
Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services and Follow-up Care
Rehabilitation is a key part of care during and after treatment for head and neck cancer. We tailor each plan to your needs based on the type and stage of cancer and the treatment you’ve received.
Our goal is to help you return to daily life as quickly and safely as possible. Services may include swallowing therapy, lymphedema management, nutrition support, occupational and physical therapy, speech therapy, reconstructive surgery, social work and palliative care.
Follow-up care is just as important. After treatment, you’ll have regular check-ins with your care team for cancer surveillance, which may include imaging and structured follow-up visits.
Why Choose Broward Health
We take a patient-centered approach to treating head and neck tumors, understanding how these cancers can affect speech, swallowing and everyday life. Our multidisciplinary team uses advanced treatments including minimally invasive procedures, robotic surgery, and targeted radiation and immunotherapies.
Our surgical team specializes in innovative techniques like robotic and endoscopic surgery, all focused on helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
