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Throat cancer is a term for cancers that develop in the tissues of the throat, including the voice box (larynx) and parts of the pharynx such as the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and nasopharynx. Most throat cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which means they start in the thin, flat cells lining the throat. These cancers can affect how you speak, swallow, and breathe, depending on their location and size.
Throat cancer is important to recognize because it can affect vital functions like swallowing and speaking. Early detection can improve treatment success and quality of life. The main risk factors include tobacco use (smoking or smokeless tobacco), heavy alcohol use, and infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can cause certain throat cancers. Other factors like exposure to certain workplace chemicals or betel quid with tobacco (a smokeless tobacco product used in some parts of Asia) can also increase risk.
People with throat cancer may notice symptoms such as a sore throat that doesn’t go away, a lump in the neck, pain or ringing in the ears, trouble swallowing, or persistent ear pain. These symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions, but if they last for several weeks, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation. Sometimes, throat cancer may cause changes in the voice or difficulty speaking.
Doctors diagnose throat cancer by first taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical exam. Imaging tests like CT scans, MRI, or PET scans help show the size and location of the cancer. A biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area, is needed to confirm the diagnosis. This tissue is examined under a microscope to identify cancer cells and their type.
Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as overall health. Common treatments include surgery to remove the cancer, radiation therapy to kill cancer cells, and chemotherapy to target cancer throughout the body. Some patients may receive targeted therapy, which uses drugs that attack cancer cells more precisely, causing less harm to normal cells. Treatment can affect swallowing and speaking, so rehabilitation like speech therapy may be recommended.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can increase the risk of oropharyngeal cancer, a type of throat cancer. HPV infections are very common and often go away on their own, but some high-risk types can cause changes in cells that may lead to cancer over time. HPV-related throat cancers may have different treatment options and outcomes. Vaccines are available to protect against the types of HPV that most often cause cancer, and discussing vaccination with your healthcare provider is important.
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with throat cancer or has symptoms, consider asking your healthcare team about the specific type and stage of cancer, treatment options and side effects, how to manage symptoms like pain or swallowing difficulties, and ways to reduce risk factors such as quitting tobacco or limiting alcohol. Also ask about HPV testing and vaccination if relevant.
This information is meant to help you understand throat cancer but does not replace medical advice. Every person’s situation is unique, so it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about what throat cancer means for you or your loved one. They can guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care based on your individual needs.
If you notice symptoms like a persistent sore throat or a lump in your neck, or if you have risk factors such as tobacco use or HPV infection, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. Early evaluation can help find problems sooner and improve treatment options. Staying informed and asking questions will help you take an active role in your care.
Public source information used for this glossary entry includes: