Throat Cancer

Cancer is a class of diseases in which abnormal cells multiply and divide uncontrollably in the body. These abnormal cells form malignant growths called tumors.
Throat cancer refers to cancer of the voice box, the vocal cords, and other parts of the throat, such as the tonsils and oropharynx. Throat cancer is often grouped into two categories: pharyngeal cancer and laryngeal cancer.
Throat cancer is relatively uncommon in comparison to other cancers. The National Cancer Institute estimates that of adults in the United States:
about 1.2 percent will be diagnosed with oral cavity and pharyngeal cancer within their lifetime.
about 0.3 percent will be diagnosed with laryngeal cancer within their lifetime.

Types of throat cancer

Although all throat cancers involve the development and growth of abnormal cells, your doctor has to identify your specific type to determine the most effective treatment plan.

The two primary types of throat cancer are:

• Squamous cell carcinoma. This type of throat cancer affects the flat cells lining the throat. It’s the most common throat cancer in the United States.
• Adenocarcinoma. This type of throat cancer affects the glandular cells and is rare.

Two categories of throat cancer are:

Pharyngeal cancer. This cancer develops in the pharynx, which is the hollow tube that runs from behind your nose to the top of your windpipe. Pharyngeal cancers that develop in the neck and throat include:

• nasopharynx cancer (upper part of the throat)
• oropharynx cancer (middle part of the throat)
• hypopharynx cancer (bottom part of the throat)

Laryngeal cancer. This cancer forms in the larynx, which is your voice box.

Signs & Symptoms

It can be difficult to detect throat cancer in its early stages. Common signs and symptoms of throat cancer include:

• change in your voice
• trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
• weight loss
• sore throat
• constant need to clear your throat
• persistent cough (may cough up blood)
• swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• wheezing
• ear pain
• hoarseness

Causes and risk factors for throat cancer

Men are more likely to develop throat cancer than women.

Certain lifestyle habits increase the risk of developing cancer of the throat, including:

• smoking
• excessive alcohol consumption
• poor nutrition
• exposure to asbestos
• poor dental hygiene
• genetic syndromes