Head and Neck Cancer

Share proton therapy across national borders and plan five new centres in Romania, Greece, Italy, Northern Ireland and Poland to maximise access for patients in Europe

OICR supports four new studies seeking cancer insights from existing patient samples and data

Four new OICR-funded studies using CATALYST will advance cancer insights by reanalyzing existing patient samples and data. The initiatives aim to improve cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment by building on previous research.

Head and neck tumors: Modern imaging provides clues to aggressive progression

A study by Medical University of Vienna shows that PET/CT scans can detect aggressive forms of head and neck cancer at an early stage due to specific patterns reflecting biological activity. Modern imaging helps identify targeted treatment strategies for a type of cancer difficult to treat.

ASCO 2026 Tip Sheet - Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center presented several studies at ASCO 2026 exploring new treatment options for patients with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and melanoma. These include velzatinib, a targeted therapy for GIST patients, and PRAME-directed T-cell receptor therapies for synovial sarcoma.

Fighting oral cancer with bioengineered chewing gum

Researchers have shown that extracts from bioengineered chewing gum reduce levels of three microbes linked to worse outcomes in oral cancers, including HPV and bacteria Pg and Fn. The findings support the value of advancing these therapies to clinical trials as adjuvants or prophylaxis.

AACR: Novel approach prevents cancer progression, spares surgery for majority of patients with precancerous oral lesions

A new treatment using low-dose nivolumab injections into precancerous oral lesions significantly reduced lesion size and risk of cancer progression. The study showed a 60% average reduction in lesion size and complete pathologic response in six patients, with no dose-limiting side effects.

Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology supports April Head and Neck Awareness Month

The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology has several active trials specifically designed to help people with head and neck cancers. Trials include testing high-dose prophylactic gabapentin to prevent opioid use during treatment, as well as immunotherapy with nivolumab and cabozantinib for mucosal melanoma and nasopharyngeal carcino...

New study pinpoints barriers to timely head and neck cancer treatment in rural areas

A new study led by Dartmouth Cancer Center identifies key barriers to timely head and neck cancer treatment in rural areas, including transportation and caregiver challenges. The research highlights the importance of dedicated staff, strong community ties, and peer support in navigating the complexity of cancer care.

As Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month begins, new study sheds light on evolving trends in oral cavity cancer among younger adults

A new study reveals that oral cavity cancer in younger adults is increasingly presenting as tongue cancer, affecting women disproportionately. Despite the trend of later-stage diagnosis, survival rates have shown modest improvement across all tumor sites and stages.

Study: Biomarker test may improve risk assessment for HPV-related throat cancer

Researchers developed a blood-based test that analyzes circulating tumor HPV DNA to inform personalized treatment strategies for HPV-associated throat cancer. The study found that ctDNA levels change before and after surgery, influenced by tumor biology and kidney function.

Researchers played music to cells – aggressiveness of laryngeal cancer decreased

The study discovered that restoring cellular vibration decreases cancer growth and severity in laryngeal cancer. Researchers exposed cancer cells to sound-wave vibration, leading to a decrease in a protein promoting cancer growth.

New AI tool helps doctors treat cancer patients after heart attack

Researchers developed an AI tool called ONCO-ACS to predict the risk of secondary heart attacks in cancer patients after a heart attack. The tool combines cancer-related factors with standard clinical data to provide reliable information for doctors to balance treatment benefits and harms.

Researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine discover genetic ancestry is a critical component of assessing head and neck cancerous tumors

A new review study led by the University of Maryland School of Medicine identifies genetic ancestry as a key component of assessing head and neck cancerous tumors. The research found that ancestry, rather than self-identified race, was a stronger predictor of genetic differences between tumors.

Novel combined PET imaging approach personalizes treatment for head and neck cancer

Researchers developed a novel combined PET imaging approach to personalize radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, creating biologic maps that show tumor characteristics. This strategy led to greater than 90% predicted tumor control probability, outperforming previous literature.

Clinical trial seeks improved survival for head and neck cancer patients

A new Phase II trial will examine whether giving chemotherapy or chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy before surgery can improve survival compared to surgery alone. The trial aims to identify a treatment that will help patients live longer without the cancer returning.

Shared process underlies oral cancer pain and opioid tolerance

Research suggests that blocking growth factor receptor signaling using cancer drugs may overcome two challenges: managing oral cancer pain and preventing opioid tolerance. This approach could control cancer while addressing pain through a non-opioid, biologically rational approach.

MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs

Researchers at MD Anderson have made significant advancements in cancer treatment, demonstrating the effectiveness of immunotherapy before and after surgery in improving lung cancer patient outcomes. Additionally, a new study shows promise in using CAR T cell therapy to treat large B-cell lymphoma, reducing relapse rates.

Artificial saliva containing sugarcane protein helps protect the teeth of patients with head and neck cancer

Researchers developed an artificial saliva containing sugarcane protein, CANECPI-5, to aid in treating teeth of patients with head and neck cancer. The solution significantly reduced bacterial activity and tooth demineralization when combined with fluoride and xylitol.

High levels of protein drive tumor immune suppression in head and neck cancer

Researchers discovered that high levels of protein BATF2 drive tumor immune suppression in head and neck cancer. Glutamine in the tumor microenvironment silences BATF2, affecting the STING signaling pathway and overall immune response.

Cleveland Clinic Research links tumor bacteria to immunotherapy resistance in head and neck cancer

Two studies found that elevated bacteria levels in tumors weaken immune response, driving resistance to immunotherapy. Researchers are now exploring how to identify patients most likely to benefit from immunotherapy and develop targeted interventions to restore its effectiveness.

Novel AI tool offers prognosis for patients with head and neck cancer

Researchers developed an AI-based noninvasive tool to predict oropharyngeal cancer spread, identifying patients who should receive aggressive treatment or undergo de-intensification. The tool improved risk stratification, enabling more accurate predictions of survival and cancer spread.

Latin American research indicates a lower prevalence of a type of head and neck cancer

A recent study analyzing over 1,400 cases of squamous cell carcinoma found that more aggressive histopathological variants occur at a rate of 4.6%, significantly lower than previous estimates. The researchers highlight the importance of considering regional differences in tumor origin and behavior to improve treatment outcomes.

How to reduce the risk of lymphedema

Researchers found that patients with low physical activity levels are at higher risk of developing lymphedema. The study used a lymph scanner to measure tissue water and identified limits for what is considered lymphedema. Regular physical activity may help reduce the risk of lymphedema after head and neck cancer treatment.

School of Dentistry at UT Health San Antonio awarded $6 million total to study treatment, pain management for oral cancer

Researchers at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry are studying novel targets and approaches to treat oral squamous cell carcinoma, the most common type of oral cancer. The studies aim to reduce pain management and mucositis in patients undergoing radiotherapy.

MSK Research Highlights, October 31, 2025

A new study from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center identifies unique genetic signatures in cancer patients of non-European ancestry and finds adding immunotherapy can boost effectiveness for hard-to-treat follicular lymphomas. Additionally, researchers discover a web-based system to report head-and-neck cancer concerns, leading to...

Researchers develop a less invasive, more effective method to analyze immunotherapy efficacy

A new blood-based liquid biopsy model, LiBIO score, predicts immunotherapy response with high accuracy. The model identifies an early post-treatment time point as optimal for assessing treatment response and can help identify patients who are more likely to benefit from immunotherapy.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center performs nation’s first surgery using latest generation of intraoperative PET-CT scan technology

Surgeons at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have successfully performed the country's first procedure using a device that combines PET and CT scans to aid in accurate staging and therapy response assessment. The use of this technology may allow surgeons to immediately assess the success of resection in achieving a negative margin.

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) matches proton therapy in patient-reported outcomes for oropharyngeal cancer

A phase III trial finds that intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton beam therapy resulted in similar quality-of-life outcomes and low rates of side effects for people with locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer. Excellent tumor control and fewer long-term side effects were seen with both treatments.

ASTRO: Targeted radioactive therapy for recurrent prostate cancer, new SBRT approaches, 5DCT-guided imaging advances and more

Researchers from UCLA presented findings on targeted radioactive therapy, new SBRT approaches and advances in MRI- and 5DCT-guided imaging. The LUNAR clinical trial looked at adding a targeted therapy before ablative radiotherapy for men with recurrent prostate cancer.

Blood test identifies HPV-associated head and neck cancers up to 10 years before symptoms

A new liquid biopsy tool, HPV-DeepSeek, can identify HPV-associated head and neck cancer in asymptomatic individuals up to 10 years before diagnosis. The test uses whole-genome sequencing to detect microscopic fragments of HPV DNA in the blood.

First ever measure of boron in individual cancer cells could revolutionise drug understanding

Researchers have developed a new technique to measure boron in individual cancer cells, enabling the study of how drugs interact with tumour cells. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for head and neck cancers.

MD Anderson research highlights for September 5, 2025

Researchers at MD Anderson have made significant advancements in treating kidney cancer, including the use of metastasis-directed targeted radiation therapy to delay systemic treatments. Additionally, preliminary data from an ELI-002 vaccine trial showed promise in delaying relapse of KRAS-mutated pancreatic and colorectal cancers.

ASTRO to showcase advances in radiation medicine and cancer research in 2025 Annual Meeting Press Program

The ASTRO's 2025 Annual Meeting will feature pivotal studies in radiation medicine, highlighting advances in radiopharmaceutical therapy and new indications for low-dose radiation therapy. The meeting will also explore cutting-edge techniques for prostate, breast, lung, and other common cancers.

Mitochondrial-targeting drug attacks cancer cells from within

A new mitochondrial-targeting drug, LCL768, has been developed to attack head and neck cancer cells by damaging their mitochondria. The drug's ability to increase ceramide levels inside mitochondria triggers mitophagy, leading to cancer cell death.

Immune cell therapy for advanced head and neck cancer helps stabilize disease

A phase 2 clinical trial found that autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) cell therapy helped stabilize metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in some patients. The median response duration was 7.6 months, with cancer stabilization occurring in 64% of patients.

Novel therapy for pet cats with head and neck cancers could help humans, too

A new class of targeted therapy showed promise in treating head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in pet cats, with 35% of patients experiencing controlled disease. The drug, which targets the transcription factor STAT3, also raised levels of PD-1, a protein associated with an immune response to cancer.

Study reveals how HPV reprograms immune cells to help cancer grow

Researchers found that HPV16 undermines the body's defenses by reprogramming immune cells surrounding tumors. Blocking IL-23 boosts experimental treatments for HPV to eliminate cancer cells.

A progressive evolution in virtual MRI imaging for tumor detection

The researchers developed a novel approach to virtual contrast enhancement in MRI imaging, using pixelwise gradient methods with Generative Adversarial Networks. The model excelled in capturing intricate details and textures, outperforming its predecessor in texture representation.

AI could soon detect early voice box cancer from the sound of your voice

Researchers have developed an AI system that can recognize the early warning stages of laryngeal cancer from voice recordings. By analyzing variations in tone, pitch, and volume, the AI can distinguish between voices with benign vocal fold lesions and those with cancer. The study's findings offer a promising breakthrough for non-invasi...

OU researchers study effects of cannabis on facial wound healing after surgery

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are conducting a first-of-its-kind study to investigate the effect of cannabis use on facial wound healing in head and neck cancer patients. The study aims to determine whether cannabis smoking negatively affects wound healing, with potential implications for other types of surgery and conditions.

Research alert: Synergistic treatment approach supercharges cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine have developed a novel approach to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy treatments for head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). Delivering radiation therapy that preserves tumor-draining lymph nodes followed by immunotherapy resulted in a complete and durable tumor response in...

New diagnostic breakthrough predicts which head and neck cancer patients can be cured with surgery alone

Researchers have identified a novel diagnostic tool that can predict patient outcomes for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The LIMA1-alpha protein reliably identifies patients who can be cured with surgery alone, avoiding unnecessary oncological treatments.

EGFR-targeted therapy resistance in breast and head & neck cancers

Researchers identified RTK dependent and independent mechanisms of resistance to EGFR targeted therapies in breast and head and neck cancers, highlighting opportunities for combination therapies and biomarker identification.

Study finds that common bacteria in the mouth can help predict the progression of head and neck cancer

Brazilian researchers have identified a link between the oral bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum and head and neck cancer, finding that its presence is associated with a more favorable prognosis. The study suggests that F. nucleatum may regulate immune factors, boosting the immune system's response and making tumors less aggressive.

New blood test developed at Mass General Brigham shows superior sensitivity in detecting HPV-associated head and neck cancers

A new liquid biopsy blood test called HPV-DeepSeek achieved 99% sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing cancer in asymptomatic patients. The test detected fragments of the viral genome and other features in the blood, outperforming current methods in detecting HPV-associated head and neck cancers.

Scientists develop super strong antibodies for new cancer treatment

Researchers from the University of Southampton engineered a new type of super-strong antibody that triggers a stronger response from the immune system compared to naturally produced antibodies. The study confirms that making subtle increases in rigidity stimulates immune activity, creating a powerful immune response against disease.

Surviving cancer, still suffering: Survey reveals gaps in follow‑up care

A study found that most head-and-neck cancer survivors who underwent radiation don't know about survivorship care, despite grapple with side effects such as dry mouth, swallowing problems, and psychological distress. The survey also found that 40% of survivors still struggle with dry mouth and nearly a quarter reported trouble swallowing.

Immunotherapy improves survival of patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer

A phase 3 clinical trial shows that adding pembrolizumab to standard-of-care therapy increases tumor shrinkage and prolongs cancer-free survival by nearly two years. Patients with locally advanced head and neck cancers benefited from this addition, marking a significant change in standard-of-care for the disease.

Immunotherapy before and after surgery improves outcomes in head and neck cancer

A phase 3 clinical trial showed that pembrolizumab before and after standard-of-care surgery significantly extends event-free survival and substantially shrinks tumors in head and neck cancer patients. This regimen has improved outcomes without delays in surgery, marking a potential new standard of care for this patient population.

Adding perioperative pembrolizumab to standard of care improves outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed head and neck cancer

A phase III clinical trial found that adding pembrolizumab before and after surgery improved responses and survival in patients with previously untreated, locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Patients treated with pembrolizumab were at least 27% less likely to have experienced recurrence.

University of Cincinnati Cancer Center presents research at AACR 2025

Researchers from the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center presented abstracts highlighting contrasting effects of a protein on head and neck, breast, and lung cancers. The study found increased levels of IL-9 in patients with head and neck cancer correlated with decreased survival, while elevated IL-9 was associated with smaller tumo...

AACR: Advancements in combination therapies for liver and pancreatic cancers, organoid-based platform for personalized head and neck cancer treatment, liquid biopsies for cancer detection and more

Researchers from the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center are presenting new findings on combination therapies for liver and pancreatic cancers, including a new organoid model for personalized head and neck cancer treatment. Additionally, they are discussing the potential of liquid biopsies for cancer detection and monitoring.

Citrus remedy squeezes out dry mouth for cancer patients

A natural citrus oil, when combined with a lipid formulation, may effectively relieve dry mouth in cancer patients. The new formula has demonstrated improved solubility and bioavailability compared to pure limonene.

High levels of traumatic stress found in caregivers of adult cancer patients

A comprehensive review of studies reveals that over 15% of caregivers of adult cancer patients suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Caregivers with pre-existing mental health conditions and high caregiver burden are at greater risk. The study highlights the urgent need for proactive screening and support to prevent long-t...

Combination immunotherapy before surgery may increase survival in people with head and neck cancer

Researchers at University of North Carolina Health Care found that combination immunotherapy before surgery increased survival rates in people with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. The treatment regimen doubled or tripled the response rate versus single immunotherapy, leading to a survival benefit for up to a third of patients.

CRISPR cut a gene from head and neck cancers -through direct injection

Researchers used CRISPR to cut a single gene from cancer cells of head and neck tumors, resulting in the elimination of 50% of the tumors after 84 days. This groundbreaking study demonstrates that some genes are essential for cancer cell survival, making them excellent targets for CRISPR therapy.

Walking, moving more may lower risk of cardiovascular death for women with cancer history

A study of nearly 2,500 postmenopausal women found that taking more daily steps and engaging in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were associated with a significantly reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Even walking fewer than 5,000 steps per day showed a risk reduction.

Chemo-immunotherapy approach shows potential benefit in patients with advanced HPV-negative head and neck cancer

A Phase 2 clinical trial found that a neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy regimen achieved a 53% deep response rate, exceeding historical data with chemotherapy alone. The treatment approach led to impressive survival outcomes and fewer toxic side effects in patients with advanced HPV-negative head and neck cancer.

Cholesterol drug repurposed as investigational therapy for HPV+ cancers at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in nation’s first-ever clinical trials

Researchers at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center have successfully repurposed fenofibrate, a cholesterol drug, to treat HPV+ cancers. The study found that fenofibrate restores the function of key tumor suppressor gene p53 and reactivates immune cells, offering a potential targeted therapy for these cancers.

Innovative CT scan technique could improve prognosis and treatments for head and neck cancers, new research suggests

Researchers analyzed pre-treatment CT scans of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to identify radiomic biomarkers that can predict the aggressiveness of the disease and its response to treatment. These biomarkers may lead to more targeted therapies and improved survival outcomes for patients.