William S. MacComb has written:

'Cancer of the head and neck' -- subject(s): Cancer, Head, Neck

Andrew F. Olshan has written:

'Epidemiology, pathogenesis, and prevention of head and neck cancer' -- subject(s): Epidemiology, Head, Neck, Cancer, Prevention, Pathogenesis, Head and Neck Neoplasms

Christine G. Gourin has written:

'The Johns Hopkins patients' guide to head and neck cancer' -- subject(s): Popular works, Cancer, Head, Neck

Janina K. Casper has written:

'Clinical manual for laryngectomy and head/neck cancer rehabilitation' -- subject(s): Alaryngeal Speech, Cancer, Head, Head and Neck Neoplasms, Laryngectomees, Laryngectomy, Neck, Patients, Rehabilitation, Speech, Alaryngeal

Cancer that involves the mouth and pharynx is commonly referred to as "head and neck cancer." Head and neck cancer encompasses a group of cancers that can affect various areas within the head and neck region, including the oral cavity (mouth), pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, salivary glands, and the soft tissues of the neck.

The most common type of head and neck cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which typically originates in the squamous cells lining the mucous membranes of these structures. Smoking and alcohol use are significant risk factors for head and neck cancer, although the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is becoming an increasingly recognized cause, particularly for oropharyngeal cancers.