Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancers include cancers of the mouth (such as the lip, gums, tongue and roof of the mouth), the pharynx (throat), the voice box (larynx), the nose and sinuses, the salivary glands, the skin and the thyroid gland. Early symptoms can include a mass or swelling in the face or neck, a painful area in the mouth or throat, a change in voice, ear pain and difficulty swallowing.

At Mount Sinai Hospital, we specialize in comprehensive care and treatment for a wide variety of head and neck cancers.

Our experts also work on groundbreaking research that helps develop new tests and personalized treatments for head and neck cancers.

What to expect

Early symptoms of head and neck cancer can include a lump or nodule, numbness, swelling, hoarseness, a sore throat or difficulty moving the jaw or swallowing.

It is important to tell your health-care provider if you experience any of these symptoms. Head and neck cancer is treatable when it is caught early.

Each cancer is different and requires specialized treatment.

If you are referred to our Cancer program, we may first send you for more tests to learn more about your cancer.

You will then meet with an otolaryngologist as part of your care.

Treatment plans for head and neck cancer often include surgery. If other therapies, such as radiation, chemotherapy or immunotherapy, are required, you may be referred to Princess Margaret Cancer Centre for that treatment.

Our head and neck surgical oncologists work closely with radiation and medical oncologists at Princess Margaret.