What is Laryngeal Cancer?
The larynx is located in the front of the neck between the pharynx and the trachea. It allows air to flow into and out of the lungs and helps expel foreign objects via coughing.
Laryngeal cancer occurs when malignant cells develop from the epithelial lining of the larynx, forming a mass or tumor. Cancer may affect any part of the larynx, including the epiglottis, supraglottic, or subglottic regions.
Symptoms of Laryngeal Cancer
Symptoms of laryngeal cancer are often noticeable. You may experience:
- Persistent hoarseness
- Difficulty breathing
- Chronic cough, sometimes with blood
- Neck pain
- Sore throat
- Ear pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Neck swelling
- Lumps in the neck
- Unexplained weight loss
Stages of Laryngeal Cancer
- Stage 0: Cancer cells are confined to the outermost layer of the larynx.
- Stage 1: Tumor is limited to the larynx and has not spread elsewhere.
- Stage 2: Tumor changes position but remains within the larynx, possibly impairing vocal cord movement.
- Stage 3: Tumor spreads to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage 4: Cancer has metastasized to other organs.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the above symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of disease progression and improve recovery.
Causes of Laryngeal Cancer
The exact cause remains unclear. Laryngeal cancer develops when cells in the larynx are damaged or mutate, leading to uncontrolled growth and tumor formation.
Risk Factors for Laryngeal Cancer
Who is at Higher Risk?
Although anyone can develop laryngeal cancer, the risk is higher in:
- Men
- People aged 55 and older
Factors That Increase Risk
- Family history of laryngeal cancer
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Overweight or obesity
- Poor diet low in fruits and vegetables
- Consumption of processed foods
- Exposure to asbestos
- Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Weakened immune system
Diagnosis and Treatment of Laryngeal Cancer
Diagnostic Methods
- Laryngoscopy: Using a flexible endoscope with a light to locate and assess tumors.
- Biopsy: Removing a small tissue sample for histopathology.
- CT or MRI scans: To determine tumor size, extent, and possible metastasis (less common in routine screening).
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the disease stage.
- Surgery: Removal of the tumor in the larynx. Possible risks include breathing difficulty, swallowing issues, neck deformity, voice changes, or scarring.
- Radiation therapy: High-energy beams destroy or slow cancer cell growth. It may be used after surgery or as a standalone treatment for small tumors.
- Chemotherapy: Anti-cancer drugs to kill or control cancer cells. Typically used to eradicate residual cells after surgery/radiation or in advanced disease stages.
In later stages, combined modalities (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy) may be recommended.
Lifestyle and Prevention
Healthy Habits to Slow Disease Progression
- Nutrition:
- Stay well hydrated
- Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein-rich foods
- Limit spicy, hard, greasy, and processed foods
- Daily Habits:
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan
- Maintain a positive lifestyle and manage stress
- Seek medical attention if you notice any new or worsening symptoms
- Attend regular check-ups to monitor disease progression
Effective Prevention
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other harmful substances
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise to strengthen immunity
- Use protective equipment if exposed to asbestos or toxic substances
- Undergo regular cancer screening for early detection
