Head and neck cancer comprises about 3–6% of all cancers in the USA. Despite the relatively small numbers, it can have great effects on appearance and affects important functions of daily living, such as speech and swallowing. For the purposes of this discussion, only the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and the neck will be covered.

The treatment of head and neck cancer is best undertaken by a multidisciplinary team of physicians and others, including head and neck surgeons, oral surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and diagnostic radiologists. Other important members of the team include speech and swallowing therapists, nurses and nurse practitioners, dieticians, social workers, and physician assistants. The team usually meets regularly to discuss the patients who have been seen recently or to discuss follow-up and status of patients after treatment. The multidisciplinary approach provides the patient with a comprehensive plan developed from many different perspectives. The treatment of a patient with head and neck cancer is frequently demanding, regardless of the method; careful attention to detail and to the subtleties of treatment is necessary to optimize the outcome.