Laryngeal Cancer

The larynx (voice box) is a cartilaginous organ at the front of the neck, between the base of the tongue and the windpipe. It houses the vocal cords; it lets air pass as you breathe, prevents food from entering the windpipe as you swallow, and produces the voice that is the source of speech. Because it carries out these functions together, even the smallest change in the larynx has a direct effect on daily life.

Laryngeal cancer is one of the most common cancers of the head and neck region; smoking and alcohol use are the most important risk factors. This cancer usually makes itself known early: hoarseness that has not gone away for a few weeks is the most useful warning sign, and it allows the diagnosis to be made at an early stage. Early diagnosis makes the disease easier to control and makes it possible to preserve the voice and the larynx.

The pages in this section have been prepared to help you understand laryngeal cancer from beginning to end. You will find, on separate pages, what the disease is, which symptoms it causes and the steps by which it is diagnosed; what staging means; the surgical, radiotherapy and chemotherapy options; the types of operation; and recovery after surgery together with the process of regaining the voice. Each page offers a general framework to help you prepare for the conversation with your doctor; personal treatment decisions can only be made after an examination and the necessary tests.