Head and Neck

Most oral cancers arise on the lips, tongue or the floor of the mouth. They also may occur inside the cheeks, on the gums or on the roof of the mouth. Oropharyngeal cancers related to HPV are often found in the tonsil or base of tongue. Other head and neck cancers arise from the voice box or throat, or from salivary (spit) glands or the thyroid gland. While anyone can develop thyroid cancers, a family history or exposure to radiation is considered a risk factor that may increase the risk. Most salivary gland cancers do not seem to be associated with any particular cause.