What Is Throat Cancer?
What Is Throat Cancer?
Throat cancer is a cancerous tumor that grows in either your throat or voice box. About half of throat cancers begin in the throat (the pharynx), and the other half start in the voice box (the larynx). Getting diagnosed and treated early gives you the best chance to have a good quality of life. Learn what you can expect and how to be proactive.
Throat Cancer Types and Stages
The two main types of throat cancer are pharyngeal cancer and laryngeal cancer. Pharyngeal cancer starts in the throat (pharynx), and laryngeal cancer develops in the voice box (larynx). Throat cancer progresses in five stages, from 0 to IV. Stages show how advanced the disease is and if it has spread to other body parts. They also help your doctor decide on the best treatment options for you.
Common Symptoms
Many people with early throat cancer don't have any symptoms. Those who do may notice voice changes, difficulty swallowing, a sore throat that doesn't go away, unexplained weight loss, jaw stiffness, and bleeding of the throat or mouth. See your doctor if these symptoms last more than a few weeks. But keep in mind that many conditions that aren't cancer have these same symptoms.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Nobody knows for sure why throat cancer happens. Although the causes are unknown, some things can increase your risk, such as tobacco use, drinking too much alcohol, not eating enough fruits and vegetables, having viral infections such as HPV, and exposure to toxins in the environment. That's why avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and getting an HPV vaccination can help reduce your risk.
Treatment Options
Treatment for throat cancer could be radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy. What you and your doctor decide depends on the stage and location of the disease. Your doctor will try to get rid of the tumor, keep the cancer from spreading, and protect your ability to swallow and speak as much as possible.