21/12/2025
Head and Neck Cancer Awareness
Head and neck cancers affect areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, nose and sinuses. These cancers are often treatable, especially when found early, so it is important to be aware of the signs.
Please look out for symptoms such as:
• A lump in the neck that does not go away after a few weeks
• A mouth ulcer that is slow to heal
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Ongoing hoarseness or changes to your voice
• Difficulty swallowing or a feeling that food is sticking
• A persistent sore throat
• Ear pain on one side without hearing loss
• A blocked nose on one side that does not clear
Most of these symptoms will not be cancer, but they should be checked if they continue.
Risk factors can include:
• Smoking
• Alcohol
• HPV infection (linked to some throat cancers)
• Poor oral hygiene
• Exposure to certain workplace chemicals
If you notice anything unusual or lasting longer than expected, please contact us. Early checks can make a significant difference.
For reliable information and guidance, please visit the NHS:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer/
For reliable information and support, visit the NHS and Cancer Research UK:
NHS: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer.../head-and-neck-cancer
Cancer Research UK: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/type
Search for the cancer type you want to find out about. Each section has detailed information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, research and coping with cancer.
