Head and neck cancers make up about 4% of cancer cases in the U.S. today. These cancer types can be commonly found around the throat, nose, and mouth area – specifically in the oral and/or nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, lymph nodes, larynx, pharynx, and salivatory glands.

According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, cancerous tumors located in sensitive areas of the body may require a more targeted form of treatment to lower the risk of radiation toxicity. Proton therapy helps to precisely treat these highly complex cancer types, such as head and neck cancers, without harming healthy tissues.

In recognition of Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month last month, Jared Sturgeon, M.D., Ph.D., radiation oncologist at Texas Center for Proton Therapy, discusses what to know about proton therapy as a head and neck cancer patient.

What are the benefits of proton therapy for head and neck cancer patients?

Proton therapy may be beneficial for head and neck cancer patients because of its precision in targeting tumors around sensitive areas of the body like salivary glands, swallowing muscles, nerves, spinal cord, brain, eyes, and other important healthy tissues we do not want high radiation exposure to. This non-invasive form of treatment has also been shown in studies to increase a patient’s ability to jointly receive other therapies, such as chemotherapy or surgery. Additional benefits which may vary per patient include, a maintained current quality of life during and after treatment as well as the ability to effectively treat areas that have already undergone radiation.

What specific types of head and neck cancers can be treated with proton therapy?

This form of treatment may treat cancers of the nasopharynx, oropharynx, larynx, oral cavity, salivary glands, sinuses, advanced skin, skull base, neck, and thyroid. Proton therapy also treats recurrent cancers of the head and neck.

Are there any long-term side effects of proton therapy in head and neck cancer patients?

Since this form of targeted treatment conforms to the shape, size, and depth of each tumor, it can eliminate cancerous cells while minimizing excess exposure to surrounding areas of the body and healthy tissues. As a result, head and neck cancer patients may have fewer potential acute or long-term side effects such as, painful swallowing, changes of voice, dry mouth, nerve damage, weight loss, or feeding tube use. Proton therapy also increases the quality of life for patients during and after treatment.

How can head and neck cancer patients learn if they are a candidate for proton therapy?

Most head and neck cancer patients are potential candidates for proton therapy. I recommend head and neck cancer patients consult with their physician to determine if this form of treatment is a fit based off their individual cancer type. However, anyone can set up a consultation at Texas Center for Proton Therapy, with no physician referral needed.