Head and Neck Cancer: Basics for the Speech Pathologist

Course overview

This course gives an overview of head and neck cancer (HNC) from diagnosis to treatment. Specific diagnostic workup and implications for treatment are discussed. Participants will learn to identify potential issues during the diagnostic workup for cancer staging and treatment decision-making. A brief overview of HNC risk factors, initial diagnostic processes (i.e., staging, etc.), indications for surgical and nonsurgical treatment, and effects of treatment on functional outcomes will be discussed. This course is appropriate for speech pathologists, oncology nurses, physical and occupational therapists, otolaryngologists, and medical residents working in any setting but particularly those in graduate training programs, acute care hospitals, cancer centers, and rehabilitation programs/centers.