Laryngeal Cancer - Treatments, Symptoms, Causes
What İs Laryngeal cancer? What are the causes and treatments options?
Laryngeal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the larynx or voice box. This article will discuss the stats, types, symptoms, causes, and risk factors of laryngeal cancer, as well as the available treatments.
According to the American Cancer Society, there were approximately 12,370 new cases of laryngeal cancer in the United States in 2021, with an estimated 3,750 deaths from the disease. Laryngeal cancer accounts for approximately 0.7% of all new cancer cases and 0.4% of cancer deaths in the United States.
Types:
There are three main types of laryngeal cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of laryngeal cancer, accounting for approximately 90% of cases. It starts in the flat cells that line the inside of the larynx.
- Adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer starts in the glandular cells of the larynx.
- Sarcoma: This is a rare type of laryngeal cancer that starts in the connective tissue of the larynx.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of laryngeal cancer may include:
- A persistent cough
- Hoarseness or changes in the voice
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of something stuck in the throat
- A sore throat or ear pain
- A lump or swelling in the neck
- Unintentional weight loss
Causes and Risk Factors:
The primary cause of laryngeal cancer is exposure to harmful substances, such as tobacco smoke, alcohol, and workplace exposures. Other risk factors include:
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco increases the risk of developing laryngeal cancer.
- Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol consumption also increases the risk of laryngeal cancer.
- HPV infection: Infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) may increase the risk of laryngeal cancer.
- Exposure to workplace chemicals: Chemicals such as asbestos, wood dust, paint fumes, and sulfuric acid mist, used in specific industries, can increase the risk of laryngeal cancer.
Treatments:
The treatment for laryngeal cancer depends on the cancer stage and the individual's overall health. Treatments may include:
- Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for laryngeal cancer. The surgeon may remove a part of or the entire larynx depending on the size and location of the tumor.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in surgery to treat laryngeal cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be combined with radiation therapy or surgery to treat advanced cases of laryngeal cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that targets specific genetic mutations in cancer cells. It can be highly effective in treating advanced cases of laryngeal cancer.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. This type of treatment can be highly effective in treating advanced cases of laryngeal cancer.
- Speech therapy: Individuals may require speech therapy to help them speak again after surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, laryngeal cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt and appropriate medical attention. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors of laryngeal cancer and to seek medical attention if any concerns arise. Prevention is also key in reducing the risk of developing laryngeal cancer, including avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. If you are concerned about laryngeal cancer, speaking with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional is important.
It is also important to note that early detection and prompt treatment can improve the outlook for individuals with laryngeal cancer. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help ensure early detection and immediate treatment.
In addition to medical treatment, individuals with laryngeal cancer may benefit from supportive care such as nutrition counseling, pain management, and psychological support.
Overall, laryngeal cancer is a severe condition that requires appropriate medical attention. With the appropriate treatment, individuals with laryngeal cancer can achieve positive outcomes. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors of laryngeal cancer and to seek medical attention if any concerns arise.