Mainly, throat cancer is the cancer of the larynx (voice box) or oropharynx (the middle part of the throat). Doctors suggest surgical removal of the malignant tumor as the first-line treatment for throat cancer. You can seek guidance from the best cancer specialist in Siliguri for throat cancer treatment.
Throat cancer involves the pharynx, larynx, and other surrounding tissue. Though there are many types of throat cancer, and the two most common types are laryngeal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer.
Laryngeal cancer affects your larynx or voice box while oropharyngeal cancer affects the middle part of your throat.
Let’s Explain the Five Unknown Facts about Throat Cancer
This reading shares five lesser-known facts about throat cancer; have a read:
HPV is a Major Risk
Did you know HPV, particularly the HPV16 strain, has been linked to oropharyngeal cancer, which starts in the middle part of the throat?This affects the base of the tongue and tonsils.
Different studies show that HPV-related throat cancers are increasing among younger, and non-smoking individuals. As per data, about 70% of oropharynx cancer results from HPV16.
Consult your doctor and ask for HPV vaccination if you think you’re at risk.
Throat Cancer – Knowing the Symptoms
Here are the signs and symptoms of throat cancer that you may not identify as a symptom of throat cancer:
- A cough
- An ongoing sore throat
- Difficulty or painful swallowing
- Ear pain that doesn’t heal after two weeks
- A lump in your neck, back of your neck, back of your mouth or throat
- Unexplained weight loss
Gender Factor
Throat cancer relatively affects men more than women. According to data, men are about five times more likely to develop throat cancer than women because of alcohol and tobacco use.
Ask for medical attention if you can’t give up on tobacco or alcohol intake on your own. Medical professionals will help you keep from substance dependency. If you think you are at risk of throat cancer, discuss it with your general physician or ENT doctor.
For throat cancer treatment, you can see the best cancer specialist in Siliguri.
Voice Changes may Indicate Throat Cancer
If you notice persistent hoarseness or changes in your voice, see your healthcare provider without delay. It might be an early sign of throat cancer, especially laryngeal cancer.
It happens becauseof the larynx, or voice box in the throat. So, any tumors in this area can directly affect your vocal cords. Specifically, voice changes that last more than two weeks need medical attention without further delay. A doctor, depending upon different tests, can detect the reason for voice changes.
Environmental and Occupational Risks
Many times, exposure to certain environmental and occupational substances can put you at risk of throat cancer. For example, a person who works in an industrythat involves paint fumes, asbestos, wood dust, and certain chemicals is at a high risk of throat cancer.
Moreover, long-time exposure to secondhand smoke can elevate your risk of getting throat cancer. Occupational safety measures can save you. Additionally, you should go for routine health checkups if you work in a similar industry.
There are modifiable factors that reduce your risk of throat cancer. This can avoid secondhand smoking exposure, HPV vaccination, practicing safe sex, taking safety measures, eating healthy, etc. Consult your healthcare provider for comprehensive diagnosis and care.