Head and neck cancers are complex diseases that require a multidisciplinary approach for optimal patient outcome. Presenting symptoms may vary from vague complaints to gross physical abnormalities. Life style choices and environmental factors are implicated in development of these diseases. Historically, surgery and radiation therapy have been the mainstays of treatment. More recently, chemotherapy has been added to the treatment regimen, with promising results in many cases. The nurse oncologist makes a significant contribution to the medical, social, and emotional aspects of treatment and rehabilitation. The nurse's role and nursing care of patients with cancers of the head and neck will be the focus of a second article.