Throat Cancer

Throat Cancer is an article that aims to give you all the information you do not know about throat cancer and more. We kindly shared the main headings with you;

Any malignancy that affects one or more throat components is generally referred to as throat cancer. Cancer of the larynx, voice box, oropharynx, or middle section of the throat, is typically the cause of this cancer. Surgery is the usual method used by medical professionals to treat this cancer. The kind, location, and extent of dissemination of throat cancer determine which operation is necessary.

 

When something causes alterations in the genetic composition of the cells in your throat, it can lead to throat cancer. This alteration transforms normal throat cells into malignant cells that spread and proliferate. Scientists are trying to figure out what causes this shift. However, some specific behaviors and illnesses have been related to an increased risk of throat cancer, including

• Whether you currently smoke or use tobacco products (such as snuff and chewing tobacco), or you used to smoke or use tobacco products. The single biggest risk factor for developing throat cancer and other head and neck cancers is tobacco use.
• You consume more alcoholic beverages than is reasonable. Researchers have connected heavy and regular alcohol drinking to pharyngeal and laryngeal cancer.
• You are infected with a particular kind of STD known as human papillomavirus (HPV).

Cancer of the throat comes in several forms. Laryngeal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer are the two most prevalent kinds of throat cancer. Your larynx, or voice box, is impacted by laryngeal cancer. Cancer of the oropharynx affects the central portion of the throat. Here are more details on these two prevalent forms:

• Cancer of the larynx: This is cancer of the voice box. More males than women are affected by this malignancy. Most commonly, it affects those over 55. Several areas of the larynx can become the site of laryngeal cancer. Overall, five years after receiving a laryngeal cancer diagnosis, 46% to 72% of patients still have the disease.
• Cancer of the oropharynx: This type of cancer affects the area of the throat just behind the mouth. Males are twice as likely as females to acquire oropharyngeal cancer. Usually, those 63 years of age and older are affected. Five years after being diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer, about 50% of patients still live.

The other less common types of throat cancer include,

• Cancer of the hypopharynx: This type of cancer affects the area of the throat directly above the esophagus and windpipe.
• Nasopharyngeal cancer: A rare kind of throat cancer is nasopharyngeal cancer. The area of your throat directly below your nose is affected.
• Supraglottic cancer: This type of cancer begins in the larynx’s upper region. Your epiglottis, the cartilage that prevents food from entering your windpipe, may be impacted. Roughly one-third of laryngeal malignancies begin in the supraglottis.
• Glottic cancer: Vocal cord cancer is known as glottic cancer. Your larynx’s central section contains your vocal cords. This is where more than half of laryngeal malignancies begin.
• Subglottic carcinoma: This type of cancer begins in the lower voice box, below the vocal cords. This is where about 5% of laryngeal malignancies begin.

Multiple cancer types that might impact different sections of your throat in different ways are included in the category of this cancer. Typical signs include:

• A persistent sore throat lasting longer than two weeks
• Discomfort or trouble with food swallowing (dysphagia)
• Voice abnormalities, such as hoarseness, that persist longer than two weeks
• Lumps in your mouth or throat’s back
• Prolonged earache lasting longer than two weeks

You do not necessarily have throat cancer if you experience these symptoms. These symptoms frequently indicate other, less dangerous illnesses. Speak with your healthcare physician if a problem persists for more than two weeks so they can investigate the cause.

A variety of tests are used by medical professionals to identify laryngeal and oropharyngeal cancer. They employ the following tests to identify either one or both of these conditions:

• Physical examination: During this visit, your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any behaviors that might put you at higher risk of throat cancer.
• Laryngoscopy: This type of test lets the medical professional examine your throat. To get a closer look at your throat and the area behind your nose, they could do a direct laryngoscopy. Your healthcare provider is doing a scope procedure.
• Pharyngoscopy: To identify oropharyngeal cancer, your doctor may perform this test. Your healthcare provider is doing a scope procedure.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: This examination creates images of your neck using a magnet and radio waves.
• PET scan: Medical professionals use this test to search for indications that cancer has spread. Endoscopic biopsy: This test, which collects tissue samples, may be performed by your healthcare professional.

The type and stage of the cancer as well as the patient’s general condition all play a role in the course of treatment. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery are the main therapeutic options. It might be advised to combine these treatments in specific circumstances. In some circumstances, immunotherapy and targeted therapies may also be employed.

• Surgery: To remove the tumor and surrounding tissues, surgery is frequently used. The location and stage of the malignancy determine how much surgery is required. A partial or complete laryngectomy may be necessary in some circumstances to remove all or part of the larynx. Surgery for oropharyngeal cancer may entail the removal of malignancies at the base of the tongue or tonsils.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are used in chemotherapy to either kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. It frequently works in tandem with radiation therapy or surgery. Chemotherapy can be used as the main treatment for severe instances, or it can be used in conjunction with radiation or surgery to shrink tumors and destroy any cancer cells that remain after these therapies.
• Personalized Medicine: Drugs known as “targeted therapies” target particular molecules that are important in the development of cancer. They could be applied in addition to other therapies. Pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, and cetuximab, which targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), are two examples.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy activates the immune system to identify and eliminate cancerous cells. Certain cases of recurrent or metastatic throat cancer may benefit from the use of checkpoint inhibitors such as nivolumab or pembrolizumab.

The oncology team will decide on the best course of action and its particulars depending on the patient’s and the cancer’s unique characteristics. Patients with throat cancer must have a comprehensive discussion about their condition with their medical team to comprehend the available treatment options, possible adverse effects, and anticipated results. Furthermore, the treatment plan may incorporate supportive care, such as nutritional assistance and rehabilitation, to improve the patient’s general health both during and after therapy.

To create your specialized treatment package and calculate the cost of it use the cost calculator below. It just takes a few seconds.

While it’s not always possible to completely prevent throat cancer, certain lifestyle choices and behaviors can significantly reduce the risk of developing this type of cancer. Here are some preventive measures,

• Quit Smoking and Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and using tobacco products are major risk factors for throat cancer. Quitting smoking and avoiding other forms of tobacco can greatly reduce the risk.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor for throat cancer. Limiting alcohol intake can help lower the risk. It’s advised to drink alcohol in moderation or abstain altogether.
• Receive the HPV vaccine: Individuals with a particular kind of HPV have an increased risk of oropharyngeal cancer.
• Eat a healthy diet: Form wholesome eating practices. Researchers have connected obesity, vitamin deficiencies, and poor nutrition to laryngeal cancer. Consuming an abundance of fruits, vegetables, nutritious grains, and lean protein in your diet may help lower your chance of laryngeal cancer.
• Guard Against Dangers at Work: If your work exposes you to chemicals or asbestos, which are known carcinogens, adopt the appropriate safety measures to reduce your exposure as much as possible. Wear safety gear and adhere to safety regulations.
• Sustain Proper Dental Hygiene: There is a link between poor dental hygiene and a higher risk of throat cancer. Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, together with routine dental examinations can help preserve oral health.
• Guard Against Environmental Elements: Reduce your exposure to environmental variables including industrial pollutants and air pollution that might cause throat cancer.
• Frequent Workout: Regular physical exercise has been associated with a decreased risk of throat cancer as well as other cancers. Try to get in at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-to-intense activity.
• Get Regular Medical Exams: Frequent screenings and check-ups for health can aid in the early detection of possible problems. Talk to your healthcare professional about your risk of cancer and heed their screening recommendations.
• Educate Yourself: Recognize the signs and risk factors of cancer of the throat. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience persistent symptoms including a sore throat, swallowing difficulties, or voice changes.

Recall that doing these steps can improve general health and well-being and lower the chance of having throat cancer. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial, as is seeking the counsel of medical experts for tailored guidance based on unique risk assessments and health variables.

It’s crucial to speak with medical experts to make an informed choice based on unique circumstances. Here are a few broad things to think about,

• Medical Expertise: Turkey has achieved notable strides in healthcare infrastructure and medical technology. Modern amenities and highly skilled medical personnel can be found in certain Turkish hospitals and medical institutes.
• Specialized Treatment Facilities: Turkey may have hospitals or specialized treatment facilities that provide all-encompassing, interdisciplinary cancer care.
• Cost: Compared to certain Western nations, Turkey’s healthcare costs may be more reasonable, which makes it a desirable choice for anyone looking for affordable care without sacrificing quality.
• Care Quality: Turkey may have hospitals that are up to par with international standards, and certain medical personnel may have studied or worked overseas.

If you have further questions or concerns you can always contact Medical Center Turkey team. We are here for you, just click below for a free consultation.