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Northwestern Medicine Head and Neck Cancer Care

Northwestern Medicine offers multidisciplinary care for the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancers.

Northwestern Medicine's team of head and neck cancer specialists have leading expertise in the diagnosis, study, and treatment of cancers of the Larynx (voice box), throat, lips, mouth, nose, and salivary glands.

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Head and neck cancers usually develop within the squamous cells (the moist cells that line the inside of the mouth, nose, and throat, for example). Alcohol and tobacco use (which includes the use of smokeless tobacco, like chewing tobacco) are two of the most important risk factors for the development of head and neck cancers.

Infection with types of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV type 16, is a risk factor for some types of head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers of the tonsils and base of the tongue. Other risk factors for head and neck cancers may include:

  • Preserved or salted foods
  • Occupational exposure
  • Radiation exposure
  • Epstein-Barr infection

Northwestern Medicine offers multidisciplinary care for the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancers, including the Head and Neck Program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Cancer Care Centers

Battling cancer is a multistep journey that may require many visits. During treatment, you need to devote your energy to getting healthy, not getting to the next appointment. That’s why treatment and support services at Northwestern Medicine are conveniently located throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, so you can get quick access to all the expertise and support you need, close to home.

Head and Neck Cancer Care in Downtown Chicago

The Northwestern Medicine Head and Neck Program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital is dedicated to treating benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck, as well as swallowing and speech problems.

Head and Neck Multidisciplinary Clinic at Northwestern Memorial Hospital

Head and Neck Cancer Care in the Northern Suburbs

The Cancer Center at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital treats benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck, as well as swallowing and speech problems

Cancer Center at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital

Head and Neck Cancer Care in the Western Suburbs

Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center Warrenville and Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center Delnor treat benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck, as well as swallowing and speech problems.

Head and Neck Cancer Care in the Western Suburbs

Head and Neck Cancer Care in Greater DeKalb County

Patients with head and neck cancer are evaluated and treated in the Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Valley West Head and Neck Clinic.

Head and Neck Cancer Care in Greater DeKalb County

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Northwestern Medicine Cancer Care Network

Our multidisciplinary team works in collaboration together across the entire Chicagoland area.

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Cancer Support Services

Northwestern Medicine offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care that includes support services to help nurture and sustain you and your family throughout your cancer journey.


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Looking for a Cancer Second Opinion?

You deserve to be comfortable with your treatment decision and have confidence in your physician. A second opinion with another specialist can help you make the most informed choices.

Learn more about seeking a second opinion