Throat cancer refers to cancers that develop in the pharynx, larynx (voice box), or tonsils. It is one of the most common head and neck cancers, often linked to tobacco, alcohol use, and HPV infection. Early diagnosis and timely treatment significantly improve outcomes.

What Is Throat Cancer?

Throat cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the tissues of the throat. It may arise from different regions:

• Oropharynx – tonsils, base of tongue, soft palate

• Hypopharynx – lower part of the throat

• Nasopharynx – upper part behind the nose

• Larynx (Voice Box) – vocal cords and nearby structures

Each site behaves differently and requires a tailored treatment approach.

Common Causes & Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of throat cancer:

• Tobacco use (smoking, chewing tobacco, pan masala)

• Heavy alcohol consumption

• HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection

• Poor oral hygiene

• Exposure to chemicals

• Chronic acid reflux

• Family history of head and neck cancer

Avoiding tobacco and alcohol significantly reduces risk.

Symptoms of Throat Cancer

Early symptoms are often subtle. Seek evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent sore throat

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Change in voice / hoarseness

• Lump in the neck

• Pain in the ear

• Unexplained weight loss

• Breathing difficulty

• Coughing blood (rare)

Symptoms persisting for more than 2–3 weeks should not be ignored.

How Is Throat Cancer Diagnosed?

1. Endoscopic Examination

A fiber-optic camera allows direct visualization of the throat and vocal cords.

2. Biopsy / FNAC

A small tissue sample is taken and examined to confirm cancer.

3. Imaging Tests

• MRI / CT scan

• PET-CT scan
  These help determine size, spread, and stage of the disease.

4. HPV & Molecular Testing

Especially important in oropharyngeal cancers.

Stages of Throat Cancer

Staging helps decide the best treatment plan:

• Stage I–II: Localized disease

• Stage III–IV: Advanced stage with spread to lymph nodes or nearby tissues

HPV-positive cancers generally have better outcomes.

Treatment Options at I D Cancer Center

We provide a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach focused on cure and quality of life.

1. Advanced Radiotherapy (IMRT / VMAT / IGRT / Adaptive Radiotherapy)

Benefits:

• Better voice preservation

• Minimal dry mouth

• Reduced swallowing difficulty

• Highly accurate and safe

2. Chemotherapy

• Cisplatin

• Carboplatin

• Taxanes

Chemotherapy improves treatment response and survival.

3. Immunotherapy

4. Surgery

Depending on location and stage, surgery may be needed for:

• Tumor removal

• Neck node dissection

• Residual disease post-radiotherapy

Minimally invasive techniques help preserve speech and swallowing.

5. Nutrition, Speech & Rehabilitation Support

• Dietician support

• Speech and swallow therapy

• Pain & symptom management

• Emotional and psychological counselling

Why Choose I D Cancer Center for Throat Cancer Treatment?

• Expert care by Dr. Sunil Kumar, SGPGIMS-trained Oncologist

• Latest radiotherapy technology: IMRT, VMAT, SRS, Adaptive RT

• Personalized treatment plans

• Multidisciplinary team: ENT surgeon, medical oncologist, dentist, physiotherapist

• Patient-centric environment

• Accurate diagnosis, compassionate care, long-term follow-up

Your comfort, safety, and successful treatment are our top priorities.

Life After Throat Cancer

• Nutrition plans

• Voice therapy

• Mouth & dental care

• Regular checkups

• Early detection of recurrence

Quality of life restoration is a major focus of our care.