Throat cancer

Throat cancer signs and symptoms

Symptoms for throat cancers can include:

• throat pain

• shortness of breath

• persistent sore throat or cough

• coughing up blood

• changes to the voice such as hoarseness

• difficulties swallowing

• feeling there is something stuck in the throat

• lumps in the neck or throat

• sudden unexplained weight loss

Causes of throat cancer

Risk factors for throat cancers include:

• smoking tobacco

• excessive alcohol consumption

• human papillomavirus (HPV)

• epstein-barr virus (EBV)

• poor diet

• family history of cancer

Diagnosis of throat cancer

Tests to diagnose pharyngeal or laryngeal cancer may include:

After a diagnosis of throat cancer

After finding out you have throat cancer, you may experience a range of emotions such as disbelief, confusion and sadness and feelings of loss of control. These reactions are normal and you may find it helpful to talk to family and friends about how you feel.

Talk to your doctor about treatments that are available to you, potential side effects and how soon you should start treatment. Take as much time as you can before making a decision.

Treatment for throat cancer

Treatment will depend on the size of the cancer, whether it has spread and your overall health

Treatment Team

• GP (General Practitioner) -

  looks after your general health and works with your specialists to coordinate treatment.

• Ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist -

  treats disorders of the ear, nose and throat

• Head and neck surgeon -

  diagnoses and treats cancers of the head and neck.

• Oral surgeon -

  treats disorders of the mouth, face and jaws.

• Dentist -

  evaluates and treats the mouth and teeth

• Radiation oncologist -

  prescribes and coordinates radiation therapy treatment.

• Medical oncologist -

  prescribes and coordinates the course of chemotherapy.

• Cancer nurse -

  assists with treatment and provides information and support throughout your treatment.

• Dietitian -

  recommends an eating plan to follow while you are in treatment and recovery.

• Pathologist -

  examines cells and tissues under a microscope

• Physiotherapist/occupational therapist -

  help with physical and practical problems such as restoring movement and mobility after treatment.

• Other allied health professionals -

  such as social workers, pharmacists, and counsellors

Screening for throat cancer

There is currently no national screening program for throat cancers available in Australia.

Preventing throat cancer

Around 60% of pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers in Australia are caused by smoking; around 30% are caused by excess alcohol consumption. So quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption will significantly reduce your risk of developing throat cancer.

Prognosis for throat cancer

Your doctor will not be able to predict the exact course of the disease, as it will depend on individual circumstances such as the type of throat cancer you have and how far it has spread, your age, medical history and overall health.