SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA OF THE HEAD AND NECK: EPIDEMIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, AND IMPACT ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a neoplasm of high epidemiological relevance, predominantly affecting the upper aerodigestive tract and presenting significant morbidity, mortality, and functional, social, and aesthetic impact. Its main risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, occupational exposure, ionizing radiation, and genetic predisposition. Early diagnosis depends on detailed clinical evaluation, advanced imaging exams, and a multidisciplinary approach, being essential for prognosis and preservation of vital functions. Therapeutic management is complex and individualized, involving surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, minimally invasive techniques, and immunotherapy, with emphasis on the importance of functional preservation and continuous follow-up. The disease and its therapies significantly affect quality of life, requiring supportive interventions and systematic monitoring. Recent evidence indicates that advances in early diagnosis, surgical technologies, and systemic therapies have led to modest improvements in survival, although gaps persist in prevention, early detection, management of advanced disease, and mitigation of impacts on patient well-being. Future strategies should prioritize prevention, prognostic biomarkers, individualized therapeutic approaches, and multidisciplinary support, aiming to optimize clinical outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by SCC.