What is Laryngeal Cancer?
Cancers of the head and neck are typically categorized by the area of the body in which they start, typically inside the mouth, the nose, and the throat. Head and neck cancers make up approximately 4% of all cancers in the United States, and rates are on the rise.
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx is divided into three main parts:
- Supraglottis: The upper part of the larynx above the vocal cords.
- Glottis: The middle part where the vocal cords are located.
- Subglottis: The lower part below the vocal cords extending to the trachea.
Types of Laryngeal Cancer
Laryngeal cancer can be classified based on the location of the tumor:
- Supraglottic Cancer: Affects the area above the vocal cords.
- Glottic Cancer: Affects the vocal cords. This is the most common type.
- Subglottic Cancer: Affects the area below the vocal cords.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors are associated with the development of laryngeal cancer:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco are the most significant risk factors.
- Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use, especially when combined with smoking.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Certain strains of HPV are linked to an increased risk.
- Occupational Exposure: Exposure to asbestos, wood dust, and certain chemicals.
- Gender and Age: More common in men and typically occurs in people over the age of 55.
Understanding these risk factors can help in early detection and potential preventive measures. However, many people with these risk factors never develop laryngeal cancer, which can occur in individuals without known risk factors.
Prevention and Early Detection:
- Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol: These are significant risk factors for laryngeal cancer.
- Regular Check-Ups: Especially for individuals with a history of smoking or heavy alcohol use.
- HPV Vaccination: Reduces the risk of HPV-related cancers, which can include laryngeal cancer.
Implementing these preventative measures can help reduce the risk of laryngeal cancer and promote overall health. If you have concerns about laryngeal cancer, it is essential to consult with a GW Cancer Center healthcare professional for personalized advice and screening.