Head and neck cancer

Laryngeal cancer is cancer that starts in the voice box (larynx). It is a rare type of head and neck cancer

Mouth cancer can start in the lips, gums or soft sides of your mouth. The oropharynx is the part of the throat (pharynx) just behind the mouth. Cancer starting in the oropharynx is called oropharyngeal cancer. 

Cancer can start in the lining of the space behind the nose (nasal cavity) or in the small, air filled spaces within the bones close to the nasal cavity (paranasal sinuses).

Nasopharyngeal cancer starts in the area behind the nose, where it meets the throat (the nasopharynx). Find out about symptoms, causes, tests, treatment and about coping with it. 

Oesophageal cancer starts in the food pipe, also known as your oesophagus or gullet. The oesophagus is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach.

Salivary gland cancer can start in any of the glands that make spit (saliva). As well as 3 major pairs of salivary glands we have over 600 smaller, minor salivary glands throughout the lining of the mouth and throat. 

Throat cancer can mean cancer that starts in any of the different structures and areas within the throat.

Tongue cancer is classed as a mouth or oropharyngeal cancer. This depends on whether it starts in the front or the back of the tongue.  

Cancer of the tonsil develops in the part of the throat just behind your mouth, called the oropharynx. It is a type of head and neck cancer.

There are 3 parts to the ear. These are the outer, middle or inner ear. Although rare, cancer can affect all of these parts.