In the larynx and pharynx, one or more of the following symptoms may occur:

• Voice change (dysphonia). If a change in voice persists for more than 15 days, especially in a patient who smokes, a specialist doctor (otolaryngologist/ENT Specialist) should be consulted, as the vocal cords, located in the larynx, may be affected.
• Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia).
• Blood in saliva.
• Sensation of pain or irritation in the neck and/or one of the ears.
• Appearance of a lump in any area of the neck.
• In advanced cases only, breathing difficulty (dyspnoea).

In the mouth, tongue, tonsils, and palate, head and neck cancer may present with the following symptoms:

• A sore (ulcer) in any area of the mouth. Any ulcer that does not heal within 15 days, whether painful or not, in a smoker and/or drinker, or in a patient who wears a dental prosthesis that causes friction, requires a visit to an Otorhinolaryngologist (ENT specialist).
• A white (leukoplakia) or red (erythroplakia) patch in any area of the mouth.
• A lump on the lip, in the mouth or neck below the jaw.
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing and/or chewing.

Risk factors most directly related to the development of head and neck cancer include:

Tobacco use

Whether smoked (cigarette, pipe or cigar) or chewed, it increases the risk of cancer of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx. There is a correlation with the amount consumed and years of habit.

Alcohol consumption

especially when combined with tobacco, since the use of both substances increases the risk by 20 times compared to non-consumers. Alcohol consumption is implicated in the development of cancers of the larynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx and oral cavity.