Throat
Cancer
Throat
Cancer
Throat cancer occurs when cancerous tumors develop
in the throat or voice box. The throat, or pharynx, and
the voice box, or larynx, are closely connected. The voice box
is located just below the throat.
According to statistics published by the American Cancer
Society, there are about 24,000 cases of throat cancer
diagnosed in the United States each year. Approximately half
occur in the pharynx, and the other half in the larynx.
The causes of throat cancer are unclear,
but researchers have identified a number of factors that
seem to increase risk. These include:
- human papillomavirus, which is a sexually transmitted
virus,
- overuse of alcohol,
- poor dental care hygiene,
- poor diet, especially one low in fruits and
vegetables,
- smoking and chewing tobacco,
- exposure to asbestos.
Symptoms of throat
cancer
Throat cancer symptoms may
include:
- a lingering
cough,
- a sore throat that
doesn't go away in a few days,
- difficulty
swallowing,
- ear pain,
- hoarseness and other
changes in voice,
- a lump or sore that
doesn't heal, and
- unusual weight
loss.
If you notice any of these
symptoms, and they last more than two weeks, see a doctor as
soon as possible.
Treatment
Your treatment options depend
on factors like the location and stage of your throat cancer,
the type of cells involved, and the general condition of your
health. Personal preferences will also be a factor.
Most people choose
to undergo radiation therapy, which seems to be
particularly effective with this type of cancer. This can be
especially true in the early stages.
When the stage is more
advanced, radiation therapy may be combined with chemotherapy
or surgery.
Prevention
There are no known ways to
prevent throat cancer, but it is believed you can reduce your
risk if you
- stop smoking, or don't
start,
- use alcohol only in
moderation, if at all,
- eat a healthy diet full
of fruits and vegetables.
Be especially careful around
chemicals. Avoid breathing chemical fumes. When working with
chemicals and be sure good ventilation is available and wear a
mask over your nose and mouth.
Other articles: Throat Health, Strep Throat, Sore Throat.
 Learn About Your
Lungs
In-depth information about
the diseases, conditions and illnesses that affect lung
health.
Special half-price offer if you
order through this website
$3.97
Click
on Learn About Your
Lungs
to see a Table of Contents
To see dozens of
additional medical products and books related to health, click
on
|