Head and neck cancers are a broad collection of cancers that begin in the upper aerodigestive tract and include the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, paranasal sinuses, and salivary glands. These malignancies can emerge from a variety of cell types, including squamous cells, salivary gland cells, and others, adding to the variability seen in their clinical presentations and outcomes. The majority of head and neck malignancies are squamous cell carcinomas, which are frequently linked to risk factors like tobacco and alcohol use. However, an increasing number of instances are being related to HPV infection, notably in oropharyngeal malignancies. Head and neck cancer symptoms can range from a persistent sore throat and difficulty swallowing to audible changes in voice and the appearance of tumors or ulcers in the oral cavity. Early detection is critical for a better prognosis because these malignancies are frequently detected at advanced stages, resulting in more difficult treatment and poorer outcomes. Depending on the stage and location of the cancer, treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, either alone or in combination. Targeted treatments and immunotherapy advances have showed promise in improving outcomes for select subsets of patients with head and neck cancer. Multidisciplinary techniques comprising surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, as well as supportive care, are critical in the overall management of head and neck cancers. Despite therapeutic advances, difficulties such as treatment-related toxicity, functional impairment, and the impact on quality of life persist, emphasizing the significance of ongoing research and comprehensive patient care in the treatment of head and neck cancers.
