The larynx, or voice box, is the organ made up of vocal cords which uses air to create vibrations and sound waves as it passes through towards the lungs. Additionally, the voice box also has a key role in swallowing and breathing functions.
Squamous cell carcinoma is also referred to as squamous cell cancer. Many people think of skin cancer when they hear squamous cell carcinoma, but these cells can also be found in other parts of the body, such as the outermost layer of cells that line the throat.
There are additional types of cancer such as adenocarcinoma, sarcomas and minor salivary gland tumors, but these are much less common. Cervenka said. Throat cancer symptoms can vary depending on the location and type of cancer, but generally, a person may experience the following:. Some of these symptoms may seem minor, but simply ignoring them could compromise an early cancer diagnosis.
Early detection could mean bypassing radiation and chemotherapy and even possibly an earlier entry into remission. People over the age of 40 are at higher risk for head and neck cancer. Prevention Different factors cause different types of cancer.
Other steps that can reduce the risk of head and neck cancer include: Avoiding alcohol Discussing marijuana as a risk factor with your doctor and avoiding marijuana use Using sunscreen regularly , including lip balm with an adequate sun protection factor SPF Reducing your risk of HPV infection is also important.
Types of Cancer. Head and Neck Cancer Guide. Net Guide Head and Neck Cancer. Medical Illustrations. Risk Factors and Prevention. Symptoms and Signs. Types of Treatment. About Clinical Trials. Latest Research. Coping with Treatment. Follow-Up Care. Questions to Ask the Health Care Team. Additional Resources. Throat cancers can originate in these surface cells. Without treatment, squamous cell carcinoma can spread into deeper tissue — including muscle and bone, or to the lymph glands in the neck.
Some types of thyroid cancers can quickly invade nearby structures such as the trachea. If not treated, the enlarging tumour can compress the trachea and cause breathing problems. The only way to tell, is to make an appointment with your GP and have the necessary tests to confirm a diagnosis. Smoking and drinking alcohol are major risk factors for throat cancer.
Using tobacco including smoking cigarettes or cigars , exposes your mouth to cancer-causing substances known as carcinogens. Alcohol may enable other carcinogens, including tobacco , to enter and damage cells.
While smoking and drinking are major risk factors for throat cancer, younger people who are non-smokers and non-drinkers are increasingly being diagnosed with this type of cancer. While exposure to HPV, occurs primarily through oral sex , it usually clears from the body. However, for some people, persistent oral HPV damages cells and leads to oropharyngeal cancer.
Symptoms can take months to develop. Diagnosis depends on the nature of your symptoms. Your GP or dentist may do some general tests and refer you to a specialist. A diagnosis of throat cancer may include:. It is natural to feel anxious waiting to get your results. You can also contact Cancer Council on 13 11 20 and speak with a cancer nurse.
Treatment depends on the size, type and location of the cancer and whether it has spread. The risk of oral cancer increases with age. Half of all oral cancers are diagnosed in people 68 years or older, according to the American Cancer Society.
National Cancer Institute : This national organization provides information used by both cancer patients and health professionals. The site provides more information on diagnoses, treatment and clinical trials. It also provides comprehensive statistics on how many people are impacted by head and neck cancers. Mayo Clinic: The Mayo Clinic is one of the nation's premier hospitals. Its website gives information about what symptoms might be a sign of throat cancer and also how to prepare for an appointment with your doctor.
Along with information about traditional treatments, it provides information about alternative medicine for throat cancer. It has chapters nationwide that serve as support groups for those suffering from head and neck cancers.
CancerCare: CancerCare has oncology social workers on call for those suffering from cancer to call at any time to deal with the challenges of battling cancer. The Oral Cancer Foundation: This non-profit organization's website compiles the latest news stories about oral cancer.
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