Head and neck cancers
Ngā matepukupuku upoko me te kaki

If you have any symptoms of head and neck cancer, they need to be checked by your doctor. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist for tests and a diagnosis.

We know that going through cancer is tough and can raise many questions. We want you to know that we’re here for you. From help with getting to your medical appointments or understanding your treatment options to offering practical support, we can help.

We can help you find answers to questions about your treatment and its effects. We're always here for emotional support when things get tough.

For answers, support or just a chat, call the Cancer Society free on 0800 CANCER (226 237) Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. 

You can also email the Cancer Society and they will respond as soon as they can: info@cancersoc.org.nz.

Just Diagnosed

We know and understand the significance and impact of a diagnosis of head and neck cancer. We know you and your whānau will have many questions.

You deserve access to high-quality information and support. We recommend you refer to the Head and Neck Cancer Australia website which is based on research and has clinical oversight. Link to Head and Neck Cancer Foundation Australia The website will provide valuable information and allow you to find detailed information about your cancer type.

The New Zealand Cancer Society Te Kāhui Matapukupuku o Aotearoa has valuable and reliable resources for those who are newly diagnosed with head and neck cancer. We strongly suggest you take up their offer of a liaison nurse to help you navigate the health system.

Link to the Cancer Society Website

Support Pack

We know how hard the journey of head and neck cancer is on patients and their whānau. We have a gift for you to make your journey a bit easier. We have a support pack for you and your carer to help keep track of treatment. It encourages you to set goals and to track your progress over time. You can share your planner with your treatment team so they know more about you. Click here to find out more.

Head and Neck Cancer Booklet

The Cancer Society has officially launched the new head and neck cancer booklet.

Read about what head and neck cancer is, types of head and neck cancer, risk factors for head and neck cancer and symptoms of head and neck cancer.

You can access the web pages here. Cancer Society Head and Neck Cancer pages

You can access the booklet here. Understanding Head and Neck Cancer

Has anyone talked to you about about immunotherapy?

Treatment with KEYTRUDA

KEYTRUDA (NOT currently publicly funded in Aotearoa New Zealand) may be used to treat patients with certain types of cancer. It is known as an immunotherapy and works by helping your immune system detect and fight your cancer. https://www.fightcancer.co.nz/

 About head and neck squamous cell cancer

If you have been diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), or you know somebody who has, you're probably looking for reliable information about the disease and its treatments. This section may help to answer some of your questions.

Most head and neck cancers start in cells called squamous cells. These cells line the moist surfaces of the mouth, nose and throat. How head and neck cancers are named depends on the area of the head or neck where the cancer starts, and includes: