New Brunswick, N.J., April 1, 2023 – Accounting for approximately four percent of all cancers nationwide according to the National Cancer Institute, head and neck cancer is the term used to describe a number of different malignant tumors that develop in or around the throat, larynx, nose, sinuses and mouth. Even though these cancers are not as prevalent as others, the majority of head and neck cancers are
preventable with certain lifestyle modifications. Matin Imanguli, MD, DDS, head and neck oncologic surgeon and chief of the Division of Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School who sees patients at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey shares more.
People can reduce their risk of developing head and neck cancer by not smoking or chewing tobacco. We have all heard about the dangers of smoking and its link to lung cancer. But if you are a smoker or tobacco user, you are also putting yourself at a greater risk for head and neck cancers. The throat, mouth and airways are particularly vulnerable because they are directly exposed to the smoke or tobacco while using it.
Oral HPV can cause head and neck cancer in men and women. Human Papillomavirus (HPV), is a sexually transmitted infection that can infect the oropharynx (tonsils and back of throat), anus, and genitals.
You Can Take Action Now
• People who smoke should talk with their doctor about ways to stop using tobacco to reduce their risk. Please contact the Tobacco Dependence Program if you or a loved one is interested in quitting smoking: 732-235-8222 or visit www.tobaccoprogram.org
• An effective vaccine is available to prevent cancers caused by HPV infections. In 2020, the Food and Drug Administration granted accelerated approval of the HPV vaccine for the prevention of oropharyngeal and other head and neck cancers caused by HPV. Talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated
• Be proactive and self-screen by checking the neck for lumps, bumps or swelling, examining the inside of cheeks and paying attention to the skin in and around the mouth/chin for any changes or abnormalities
• Talk with your doctor about medical history and lifestyle to determine personal risk of head and neck cancers. Additionally, regular health appointments provide medical professionals the opportunity to monitor for any abnormalities in the head and neck region
The Head and Neck Oncology Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state’s leading cancer program and only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center together with RWJBarnabas Health, provides state-of-the-art, comprehensive care for patients with benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck region. Learn more: https://www.cinj.org/patient-care/head-and-neck-oncology-program.