These cancers often manifest as ulcers, pain or lumps in the mouth of throat, or as difficulties with swallowing or vocal function. Some patients may experience ear pain, which can occur due to the shared nerve pathways of the throat and ear.
Mouth and throat cancers are commonly linked to tobacco use and excessive alcohol intake.
This category encompasses cancers affecting the mucosal linings of the oral and pharyngeal passages, including areas such as the lips, tongue, buccal mucosa, tonsil, mandible, maxilla, larynx and pharynx. The predominant type of these cancers is squamous cell carcinoma, which behaves differently from Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC).
Many patients present with enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, which often indicates that the cancer is at an advanced stage.
The treatment modalities include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the location and stage of the tumour site, the individual's overall health status and the objective of preserving vital functions, such as speech and swallowing.
