The symptoms which may suggest a cancer in the head and neck are a hoarse voice, pain or discomfort in the throat, an ulcer on the tongue or other part of the mouth, a lump or white patch in the mouth, painful or difficult swallowing or a lump in the neck. If any of these symptoms last for four weeks or more, I would urge the person to see their doctor without delay. We have saved lives through early treatment.

– Richard Wight, head and neck consultant at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough

Mainly affecting people over the age of 40, head and neck cancer includes cancers in the mouth, larynx , throat, nose and ear. Treatment is simpler and more effective when the disease is caught early, therefore we encourage people to see their doctor or dentist as soon as they detect any worrying symptoms. This type of cancer is less well known than some cancers but is more common in the north east than in other parts of the country. It is also on the increase.