Category:
FAQ
- The treatment plan for an individual patient depends on a number of factors, including the exact location of the tumor, the stage of the cancer, and the person’s age and general health. Treatment for head and neck cancer can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of treatments.
- People who are diagnosed with HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer may be treated differently than people with oropharyngeal cancers that are HPV-negative. Recent research has shown that patients with HPV-positive oropharyngeal tumors have a better prognosis and survival. They may do just as well with less intense treatment and fewer long-term side effects. Ongoing clinical trials are investigating this question.
- More information about treatment for head and neck cancer based on location is available in the following summaries. These are available for patients and health professionals and are available in Spanish.
- Each treatment regimen has its own set of risks and side effects. The patient and doctor will discuss treatment options fully, especially how they may change how the patient looks, talks, eats, and breathes.