Overview:

Larynx is commonly known as the voice box. It helps in production of speech which is a very important function for everyone. When cancer cells are formed in the larynx, it is called laryngeal cancer. It is the 2nd most common head & neck cancer after oral cancer in India.

Warning signs of laryngeal cancer:

• Persistent cough
• Sore throat not resolving for more than 4 weeks
• Discomfort or pain in swallowing
• Hoarseness or change of voice
• Lump in the throat or neck
• Difficulty in breathing
• Difficulty in swallowing

Risk factors:

• Tobacco - consumption of pan, pan masala, gutka, masheri, smoking of beedi, cigarettes is a leading cause
• Alcohol – consumption of alcohol increases the risk of oral cancer
• Poor dietary habits and lack of proper nutrition
• Human Papilloma Virus infection

How do you diagnose laryngeal cancers?

• Physical examination of the throat & neck
• Fibreoptic Laryngoscopy with biopsy
• CT/MRI/ PET CT scan

Treatment for laryngeal cancers:

• Surgery: Early cancers can be treated by LASER or Robotic Surgery.
• Advantages : excellent cure rates, maximal voice preservation, minimal side effects
• Advanced cancers need open surgery i.e. Laryngectomy which means removal of the entire voice box and surrounding lymph nodes
• Radiation therapy : can be used in early as well as advanced laryngeal cancers
• Chemotherapy : used along with radiation in advanced laryngeal cancers

Can we prevent Laryngeal Cancer ?

Lifestyle modification in the form of stopping tobacco in all forms will help to reduce the risk of laryngeal cancer.