Symptoms, Causes & When to Seek Care
Throat Cancer
What is Throat Cancer?
What is Throat Cancer?Throat cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the tissue of your throat (pharynx) or your voice box (larynx). Most throat cancers are treatable, but receiving early diagnosis and treatment is key.
- Throat cancers occur in the oropharynx, nasopharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. While most throat cancers have the same types of cells, the type of throat cancer you have depends on where the cancer originated.
- Symptoms not to be ignored: coughing, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, ear pain, or a lump in your throat, neck, or back of the mouth. If these symptoms persist for 2 weeks or more, consult your doctor.
- Major risk factors: Smoking, using tobacco products, excessive alcohol use, HPV infection, and Epstein-Barr virus.
- Diagnosis for throat cancer typically includes a physical exam, a scope test (endoscopy or laryngoscopy), imaging tests, and a biopsy.
- Early detection matters. Catching throat cancer early significantly increases curability rates, allows for less invasive treatments, and can preserve speech and swallowing functions.
Types of Throat Cancer
Types of Throat CancerThroat cancer is a general term that describes a malignancy in one of several areas in the throat or voice box. Your treatment will be based on your tumor's type, location, stage, and biology (such as whether it is HPV-positive or HPV-negative).
Types of throat cancer include:
- Oropharynx cancer develops in the part of your throat directly behind your mouth, including your tonsils. A key symptom is a lump in the back of the throat or neck.
- Nasopharynx cancer begins in the area of the throat behind your nose. A primary symptom is a lump in your neck caused by a swollen lymph node.
- Hypopharynx cancer (laryngopharyngeal cancer) occurs in the lower part of the throat, above the esophagus and windpipe. A persistent sore throat that does not go away can be a telltale symptom.
About HPV-related throat (oropharyngeal) cancer
HPV is estimated to cause approximately 70% of throat (oropharyngeal) cancers in the United States. While most people with HPV will not develop cancer, individuals who are positive for high-risk types, especially HPV 16, should talk to their physician if they notice concerning symptoms.
Signs & Symptoms of Throat Cancer
Signs & SymptomsMany throat cancer symptoms can be similar to those of other illnesses. Symptoms that may persist include:
- Hoarseness or other changes in your voice
- Trouble swallowing
- Persistent sore throat
- Ear pain or ringing
Symptoms that warrant prompt evaluation include
- A lump in the neck
- Unexplained weight loss
If any of these symptoms last for more than 2 weeks, make an appointment with your doctor.
What Causes Throat Cancer?
What Causes Throat Cancer?Throat cancer can develop when cells in your throat undergo certain genetic changes (mutations) that make them grow and multiply uncontrollably. Certain risk factors may trigger these mutations. The cells accumulate into a tumor. Cancer metastasis happens when the cells leave the tumor and spread to other parts of the body
Risk Factors for Throat Cancer
Risk Factors for Throat CancerSeveral factors raise the risk of developing throat cancer:
- Tobacco use, both smoking and chewing (including betel quid and gutka)
- Excessive alcohol use
- Combined alcohol and tobacco use
- HPV, especially the HPV 16 strain, is strongly linked to oropharynx cancers, making it the fastest-growing type of head and neck cancer in the United States.
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, or heartburn)
- Exposure to toxic substances, such as those found in the workplace
Preventing Throat Cancer
PreventionWhile there is no proven way to prevent the development of throat cancer, you can reduce your risk by taking the following steps:
- Avoiding tobacco use or quitting, if you already smoke or chew.
- Consuming alcohol in moderation, if at all.
- Following a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Protecting yourself from HPV-related throat cancer by using a condom during sex or—if you are eligible—getting vaccinated against HPV.
- Avoiding exposure to workplace chemicals by ensuring proper ventilation and use of protective equipment.
This content has been reviewed by the following medical editors.
Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Throat Cancer Care
If you have been diagnosed with throat cancer or you have throat cancer symptoms that won't go away, the cancer care teams at NewYork-Presbyterian can help. In addition to throat cancer, we treat all types of head and neck cancers, including nasal and paranasal sinus cancers, Schwannoma, and acoustic neuroma.
Make an appointment today to meet with one of our throat cancer experts and learn more about what we can do for you.