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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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Head and neck cancers are uncommon and only about 7800 people in the UK are diagnosed with them each year.
About 90% of head and neck cancers are of a type called squamous cell carcinoma. These start in the cells that form the lining of the mouth, nose, throat or ear, or the surface layer covering the tongue.
Head and neck cancers can also develop from other types of cells:
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If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.