Head and neck cancer (HANC) represents the 8th most common form of cancer in the UK, and the 6th globally. Around 12,000 new HANC cases are diagnosed each year in the UK and there are more than 30 areas within the head and neck where cancer can develop.
The Cheshire and Merseyside region serves a population of 2.2 million, with an incidence of HANC that has increased over the last decade by 40%, in keeping with the wider U.K. trend. People who smoke and/or drink alcohol regularly are more at risk of developing HANC. However the majority of HANC cases are now occurring in patients younger than 65 years of age, with many other risk factors such as human papillomavirus (tonsil and base of tongue) and occupational risk factors (sinuses and nose) having been identified.
Liverpool Head and Neck Centre (LHNC) is the UK`s largest integrated NHS / university collaboration for research and treatment of patients with disease of the head and neck; >750 cases of head and neck cancer are diagnosed and treated in Liverpool every year. The LHNC, created in 2018, is a collaboration of the following partners: University of Liverpool, Liverpool Health Partners, Mersey Head and Neck Oncology Research Group and NHS Foundation Trusts. The Centre draws together world class research and medical expertise to provide the best possible results for Head and Neck cancer patients locally.
The term ‘Head and Neck Cancer’ describes a host of cancers, which may occur in many areas of the head and neck, outside the brain. The most common cancers arise from the lining of the mouth, voice box and throat, although head and neck cancer may also arise from other organs in the head and neck such as the thyroid gland or salivary glands.
The main symptoms to look out for include persistent swollen neck gland, hoarse voice, mouth ulcer lasting more than four weeks or throat pain and difficulty swallowing. Anyone with concerning symptoms should contact their GP.
Our Centre comprises world-leading clinical and academic specialists within the field of head and neck cancer surgery, medical and radiation oncology, reconstructive surgery, radiology, pathology, palliative care, dietetics, speech and language therapy and cancer nursing.
All patients treated with head and neck cancer are discussed at our multi-disciplinary meeting in order to ensure the highest standards of care for all. We welcome local and national referrals for specialist centre review.
Diseases Treated
Hypopharynx and Cervical Oesophagus
Larynx
Nasal Cavity and Sinuses
Nasopharynx
Oral cavity (Mouth)
Oropharynx (Tonsil, Base of Tongue, Soft Palate)
Salivary gland tumours
Sarcomas of the Head and Neck
Skin
Skull Base Tumours
Thyroid and parathyroid tumours
Unknown Primary Cancer of the Head and Neck