What is Laryngeal Cancer? Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment Methods

Increase in Laryngeal Cancer Cases: Warning from Experts

Over the past 20 years, there has been a significant increase in laryngeal cancer cases worldwide. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nihal Seden BOYOĞLU, ENT and Head and Neck Surgery Specialist at Yeditepe University Kozyatağı Hospital, said, “According to statistics, there has been an increase of over 50% in throat cancer cases. The main reason for this is the aging population, but the increase in smoking and alcohol consumption is also a significant factor.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. BOYOĞLU noted that laryngeal cancer cases are increasing in Turkey, especially among individuals under the age of 50, and warned, “The increase in tobacco product use among young people is also contributing to this situation.”

🚬 The Biggest Threat in Laryngeal Cancer: Smoking and Alcohol

Laryngeal cancer, which accounts for approximately 1% of all cancers, is more common in men over the age of 50.
However, the increase in smoking rates among women and young people in recent years shows that the risk is also rising for these groups.
Assoc. Prof. BOYOĞLU emphasized the seriousness of this relationship, stating, “Over 95% of laryngeal cancer cases are related to smoking.”

🔊 Symptoms of Laryngeal Cancer

The larynx is an important organ that houses the vocal cords and enables speech. A tumor that starts in this area may manifest itself in the early stages with voice changes.
The earliest symptoms include:

• Hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks
• Thickening, cracking, or hoarseness of the voice
• Persistent sore throat or cough
• Difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing, or a feeling of something stuck
• Ear pain
• Lump/swelling in the neck or throat
• Shortness of breath
If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you should definitely consult an ENT specialist.

🧬 Early Diagnosis Increases Treatment Success

Treatment success rates are quite high for laryngeal cancers detected in the early stages. Assoc. Prof. BOYOĞLU says, “Early diagnosis increases the patient's life expectancy and quality of life. Therefore, symptoms such as hoarseness should not be taken lightly.”

🔍 How is Laryngeal Cancer Diagnosed?

If laryngeal cancer is suspected after examination, a biopsy is required for a definitive diagnosis.
The biopsy procedure is performed under general anesthesia through the mouth.

This procedure:
•    Does not require external incisions or stitches,
•    Allows for discharge on the same day,
•    Provides detailed information about the spread of cancer.

🩹 Laryngeal Cancer Treatment Methods

The treatment plan is determined individually based on the patient's general condition, the stage of the tumor, and the function of the larynx.

Treatment methods include:
•    Surgical intervention
•    Radiotherapy (radiation therapy)
•    In some patients, both methods are used together.
In early-stage patients, treatment is possible from inside the mouth using closed techniques such as lasers. In more advanced cases, open surgical methods are preferred. Depending on the location of the tumor, part or all of the larynx may be removed.

🚭 After Treatment: Smoking and Alcohol Must Be Stopped

Smoking and alcohol consumption during and after treatment reduce the chances of recovery. Associate Professor BOYOĞLU warned, “Patients who continue to smoke after treatment have a high risk of cancer recurrence. The likelihood of a second tumor developing also increases.” Therefore, regular follow-up and healthy lifestyle habits are very important after treatment.

🎗️ Remember: Early Diagnosis Saves Lives

Although hoarseness is common among professions that use their voice frequently (teachers, call center employees, artists, etc.), it should not be taken lightly. Assoc. Prof. BOYOĞLU says, “Consulting an ENT specialist without delay when faced with prolonged symptoms enables early diagnosis and successful treatment.”