Throat Cancer: Understanding the Disease and Treatment Options

Dr. Sharan Hatti, Senior Consultant Surgical oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Kalaburagi 

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. These cells divide and multiply at an accelerated rate, forming tumors that can invade and destroy nearby tissues. Cancer can affect any part of the body, and there are over 200 different types of cancer. Throat cancer, also known as laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the throat, which is the part of the body that connects the mouth and the esophagus. It can affect various parts of the throat, including the larynx (voice box), the pharynx (upper throat), and the hypopharynx (lower throat). It can impact our ability to speak, swallow, and breathe comfortably, highlighting the critical importance of understanding this disease and the available treatment options. There are two main types of throat cancer are: Laryngeal cancer: This type of cancer affects the larynx, also known as the voice box, which is responsible for producing sound. Oropharyngeal cancer: This type of cancer affects the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat that lies behind the mouth and includes the tonsils. 

Symptoms of Throat Cancer 

·         A persistent sore throat that does not go away 

·         Difficulty swallowing 

·         Hoarseness or changes in voice 

·         A lump in the neck 

·         Ear pain 

·         Unexplained weight loss 

·         Coughing with blood 

The primary risk factors for throat cancer are: 

1.       Tobacco use: Smoking and using smokeless tobacco products significantly increase the risk of throat cancer. 

2.       Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake elevates the risk of throat cancer. 

3.       Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: HPV, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, is a major risk factor for certain types of throat cancer. 

4.       Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed foods may increase the risk of throat cancer. 

Throat cancer is staged based on the size and extent of the tumor, as well as whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs. The stages range from Stage I (early-stage) to Stage IV (advanced-stage). 

The treatment approach for throat cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. The main treatment options include: 

·         Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for localized throat cancer. The type of surgery depends on the location and extent of the tumor. Procedures may involve removing part of the throat, the entire larynx (voice box), or nearby lymph nodes.  

·         Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery. Radiation therapy may be delivered externally through a machine or internally through radioactive implants placed directly into the tumor.  

·         Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is often used in combination with radiation therapy for advanced-stage throat cancer or when cancer has spread to other parts of the body.  

·         Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target certain molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth and progression. It is a newer treatment option for throat cancer. 

There are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing throat cancer: 

·         Quitting smoking and using smokeless tobacco products 

·         Limiting alcohol consumption 

·         Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables 

·         Getting vaccinated against HPV 

·         Practicing good oral hygiene 

Throat cancer is a serious condition, but with early detection and advances in treatment, there is hope for successful outcomes. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options is essential for anyone concerned about throat cancer. Engaging in preventive measures and seeking prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms can make a significant difference in the course of this disease.