Our role is to provide supportive, complementary therapies alongside conventional care where appropriate.
Explore our approach
01 / Overview
Also known as: Head and neck cancer.
The site where the cancer starts matters. A biopsy identifies the cell type, while examination and scans help establish its extent. For cancers of the oropharynx, including the tonsils and base of the tongue, HPV status can affect staging and treatment discussions.
02 / Types
The diagnosis on your pathology report guides the discussion. The main distinctions include:
Sources: 1
03 / Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the site. Persistent changes in the mouth, throat, neck, or voice should be checked.
Many of these symptoms have non-cancerous causes. Speak to a doctor or dentist if they persist. Difficulty breathing needs urgent medical attention.
Sources: 3
04 / Stages
There is no single staging table for every head and neck cancer. Staging generally considers the original tumour, nearby lymph nodes, and distant spread. HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer has a different stage grouping from HPV-negative disease. Your specialist should explain the system that applies to the exact site and diagnosis.
Sources: 2
05 / Conventional care
06 / Verita Life care
Care at Verita Life considers physical and mental wellbeing, emotional support, and lifestyle alongside oncology treatment.
Bring the biopsy report, imaging, and treatment plan. Let the team know early about eating, drinking, swallowing, voice, or dental difficulties so these concerns can be considered alongside your specialist care.
07 / Therapies
The treatment families below explain the wider Verita Life service. They are not a list of treatments recommended for everyone with this diagnosis.
Your consultation is the place to discuss which options, if any, are appropriate alongside your current treatment. Ask about the purpose of each proposed therapy, its evidence for your cancer type, possible risks, and how it fits with your oncologist’s plan.
The treatments below are used across cancer types. Which ones apply to you is decided in your consultation.
08 / Questions
This group includes cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, nasal cavity, sinuses, and salivary glands. The exact site and cell type are important parts of the diagnosis.
Source: National Cancer Institute
No. Surgery, radiotherapy, or drug treatment are normally considered in different combinations in conventional medicine, while our approach depends on where the cancer began, its stage and the person’s general health.
Source: National Cancer Institute
Bring your biopsy report, imaging, and current treatment plan. Tell the team about difficulties with eating, drinking, swallowing, voice, or dental health so these can be considered alongside specialist care.
Source: Verita Life cancer guide
09 / Sources
Medically reviewed by Dr Thapana Tangshewinsirikul (Dr Tom), Oncology Director. Last reviewed 2026-09-30.
Care at Verita Life
