Personal stories from real people who survived their disease … And how they did it!

personal stories from people who successfully battled their disease and how they did it

More about Throat / Neck

Throat cancer refers to cancer of the voice box, the vocal cords, and other parts of the throat, such as the tonsils and oropharynx. Throat cancer is often grouped into two categories: pharyngeal cancer and laryngeal cancer. Throat cancer is relatively uncommon in comparison to other cancers. The National Cancer Institute estimates that of adults in the United States: About 1.2 percentTrusted Source will be diagnosed with oral cavity and pharyngeal cancer within their lifetime, and About 0.3 percentTrusted Source will be diagnosed with laryngeal cancer within their lifetime.

Types

Although all throat cancers involve the development and growth of abnormal cells, your doctor has to identify your specific type to determine the most effective treatment plan. The two primary types of throat cancer are: Squamous cell carcinoma – This type of throat cancer affects the flat cells lining the throat. It’s the most common throat cancer in the United States. Adenocarcinoma – This type of throat cancer affects the glandular cells and is rare.

Symptoms

It can be difficult to detect throat cancer in its early stages. Common signs and symptoms of throat cancer include: Change in your voice, Trouble swallowing (dysphagia), Weight loss, Sore throat, Constant need to clear your throat, Persistent cough (may cough up blood), Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, Wheezing or Ear pain. Make a doctor’s appointment if you have any of these symptoms and they don’t improve after two to three weeks.