Head and neck cancer refers to a group of biologically similar cancers that start in the lip, oral cavity (mouth), nasal cavity (inside the nose), paranasal sinuses, pharynx, and larynx. 90% of head and neck cancers are squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most frequent malignant tumor of the head and neck region.

HNSCC is the sixth leading cancer by incidence worldwide. There are 0.5 million new cases a year worldwide. Two thirds occur in industrialized nations. HNSCC usually develops in males in the 6th and 7th decade. The five-year survival rate of patients with HNSCC is about 40-50%.