H &N Cancers can arise from the mucosa - the lining of the inside of the mouth and throat - of the oral cavity, the pharynx and the larynx. They can also arise from the salivary glands, the thyroid and parathyroid glands, from the skin, and (rarely) limited to the nodes of the neck (an unknown primary). 

The treatment of these cancers usually follows a thorough discussion of the individual disease by a group of senior clinicians, at the Multi-Disciplinary Team Meeting, held weekly in the RDH. The management is determined by the  stage of the tumour, results of all the investigations, and is mainly surgery and Radiotherapy. Chemotherapy may be employed along with the radiotherapy.

At the RDH, we see at least 60 new cases of H&N cancers every year. With Radiation Therapy to be available on site by 2010, holistic care can be planned and delivered within the Territory.

Mahiban E.Thomas, Consultant Surgeon, Head of Head & Neck Services.