What is Larynx Cancer?
What is Larynx Cancer?
We create a voice from our voice box called larynx. Larynx cancer, also known as laryngeal cancer, affects the tissues of the larynx (voice box), which is located in the throat. This type of cancer is more common in men and often linked to lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol use. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Understanding
Definition: Larynx cancer is a type of throat cancer that begins in the larynx, which is responsible for voice production, breathing, and protecting the trachea against food aspiration.
Types: The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, which arises in the flat cells lining the larynx. Other types include adenocarcinoma and chondrosarcoma, but these are much rarer.
Our Specialist
Dr. Hemant Nemade
Consultant Head and Neck Oncologist
at Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital
What Causes
Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes is the leading cause of larynx cancer.
Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use significantly increases the risk, especially when combined with smoking.
Occupational Hazards: Exposure to certain chemicals and substances, such as asbestos and industrial pollutants, can increase the risk.
Diet and Nutrition: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to the risk of developing larynx cancer.
Age and Gender: Men over the age of 55 are at higher risk, but the disease can affect anyone.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Hoarseness or Voice Changes: Persistent hoarseness or changes in the voice lasting more than two weeks.
Persistent Sore Throat: A sore throat that does not go away.
Difficulty Swallowing: Pain or difficulty in swallowing.
Lumps in the Neck: Swelling or lumps in the neck area.
Chronic Cough: A persistent cough that does not improve.
Ear Pain: Persistent ear pain without an ear infection.
Breathing Difficulties: Shortness of breath or noisy breathing.
Prevention and Early Detection:
Regular Check-ups: Routine visits to a healthcare provider, especially for those at high risk.
Self-examination: Awareness of any persistent symptoms and seeking medical advice promptly.
Avoid Risk Factors: Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances.
Vaccination: HPV vaccination can reduce the risk of HPV-related larynx cancers.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options:
Diagnosis: Involves physical examination, laryngoscopy (visual examination of the larynx), biopsy, and imaging tests like CT scans, MRI, and PET scans.
Treatment Options:
- Surgery: Surgery most of the times offered for the cure from the disease. There are multiple options of surgery according to site and stage of disease. These include endoscopic laser surgery, partial or total removal of the larynx (laryngectomy) depending on the stage and location of the cancer.
- Radiation Therapy: Used to destroy cancer cells and many larynx cancers can be cured with Radiation therapy. In some cases it is used in combination with surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Utilized to kill cancer cells, especially if the cancer has spread.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cell mechanisms.
- Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s immune system fight cancer.
Life After Cancer Treatment:
Most patients return to normal activities following successful treatment. Advanced surgical techniques and therapies help maintain quality of life by preserving speech and swallowing functions. Patients may need ongoing support to manage any long-term effects such as changes in voice, breathing, or swallowing. Most patients resume their normal duties and work, adapting to any new lifestyle changes as needed.
Tips to Prevent Recurrence:
● Regular Follow-ups: Consistent medical check-ups to monitor health. ● Quit Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid all tobacco and limit alcohol consumption. ● Healthy Diet: Emphasize a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. ● Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain overall health.
Support and Resources:
Support Groups: Access to emotional and psychological support for patients and families. Educational Resources: Information through healthcare providers, cancer organizations, and online platforms. Community Programs: Participation in awareness campaigns, screenings, and educational workshops.
The Importance of Awareness:
Early Detection: Crucial for improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Public Education: Informing the public about risk factors, symptoms, and prevention strategies.
Research Funding: Supporting research for better diagnostic tools and treatments.
Advocacy: Promoting policies that encourage cancer screening and prevention programs.
Raising awareness about larynx cancer helps individuals recognize symptoms early, seek timely medical care, and support efforts to reduce the incidence of this disease in the community.