Head and neck cancers, or ENT cancers, are malignant tumors that develop in the organs that make up the upper aerodigestive tract (UADT):

• The mouth (lips, tongue, gums, palate)
• The nasopharynx (the part of the pharynx located behind the nose)
• The oropharynx (the part of the pharynx located behind the mouth, including the tonsils and the base of the tongue)
• The hypopharynx (the lower part of the pharynx, just above the esophagus)
• The larynx (the voice box, which includes the “Adam’s apple”)

Early detection of these diseases is crucial: depending on the tumor’s location, the chances of a cure can reach 80 to 90 percent when treated at an early stage—a rate that drops significantly once the disease has progressed.

It is therefore important to watch for unusual symptoms that may appear in the ENT area. Cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract can manifest through several signs that may seem trivial at first glance but should not be ignored if they persist. The rule to follow is “any symptom lasting three weeks or longer.”

Thus, if you notice at least one of the following symptoms:

• A lump or swollen lymph nodes in the neck;
• Sore throat;
• A sore tongue, mouth ulcers that won’t heal, and/or white or red patches in the mouth;
• Difficulty and/or pain when swallowing;
• Unexplained pain inside the ear;
• A change in voice or persistent hoarseness;
• A stuffy nose on one side and/or nosebleeds;

If these symptoms last for more than 3 weeks, you should see your primary care physician, who will refer you to an ENT specialist for further testing if necessary.

Three risk factors, most of which are preventable

In the vast majority of cases, ENT cancers are linked to specific behaviors, making them partially preventable diseases.

• Tobacco remains the leading cause: it is implicated in approximately 85% of cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract.
• Alcohol is the second major risk factor. When combined, tobacco and alcohol do not simply add their effects—they multiply them.
• The HPV virus, a sexually transmitted infection that is now widespread, is reshaping the epidemiological landscape of these cancers. In France, approximately 1,200 HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers (tonsils and base of the tongue) are diagnosed each year, with a sharp and concerning rise in incidence across Western countries.

Prevention: Addressing Risk Factors at Any Age

The most effective prevention remains that which addresses the causes: quitting smoking and drinking in moderation, regardless of the patient’s age or health status at the time of the decision.

Regarding HPV, there is a safe and effective vaccine to protect against these viruses. In France, the vaccine used protects against nine different types of HPV, including those most commonly associated with cancer. Getting vaccinated can thus prevent up to 90% of HPV infections that can lead to cancer.

In France, HPV vaccination is recommended for all children aged 11 to 14, and as a catch-up vaccination for all girls and boys aged 15 to 26.

• For more information: vaccination.

Gustave Roussy, a center of excellence for ENT cancers

As the national reference center for rare head and neck tumors—including tumors of the skull base and salivary glands—Gustave Roussy has ranked first for several years in Le Point magazine’s ranking of hospitals and clinics for the treatment of ENT cancers.

The Institute’s ENT committee brings together a high-level multidisciplinary team: ENT and thyroid surgeons, plastic surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, specialized dentists, pathologists, radiologists, prosthodontists, and speech-language pathologists. This convergence of expertise allows the Institute to offer each patient personalized care tailored to every stage of the disease.

True to its commitment to excellence and innovation, Gustave Roussy develops cutting-edge minimally invasive surgical approaches, notably robot-assisted surgery, aimed at preserving patients’ organs and quality of life as much as possible. When complex reconstructive surgery is necessary, the team’s expertise helps minimize the resulting complications as much as possible. In radiation therapy, IMRT—intensity-modulated radiation therapy—is among the techniques offered. In medical oncology, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and therapeutic vaccines are opening up new possibilities for patients with advanced-stage disease.

• To learn more about the latest advances in the treatment of ENT cancers

A week filled with numerous events

As part of the Rouge-Gorge campaign, taking place from March 30 to April 5, Gustave Roussy is organizing several events to raise public awareness of ENT cancers.

• March 31: A “Repas Tocqués” workshop featuring blended foods, for patients under the care of the ENT committee.
• April 1: A screening day will be held in the main lobby of Gustave Roussy.
• April 2: An awareness day will be held on the plaza in the La Défense district, featuring experts from the Gustave Roussy ENT committee.