Imagine having a sore throat that never goes away or losing your voice for weeks. These could be symptoms of larynx cancer, a rare but deadly disease that affects the larynx or voice box. Larynx cancer is not a death sentence, though.

With early detection and proper treatment, many people survive and thrive, defying the odds and inspiring others to fight.

What is Larynx Cancer?

Larynx cancer, also known as laryngeal cancer, is a type of throat cancer that starts in the larynx or voice box. The larynx is a small, tube-like organ located in the neck that plays a crucial role in breathing, swallowing, and speaking.

It contains the vocal cords, which vibrate when air passes through them, producing sound.

Larynx cancer can begin in different parts of the larynx, such as the supraglottis, glottis, or subglottis, and can spread to nearby tissues or organs, such as the thyroid gland, trachea, or lymph nodes.

The exact cause of larynx cancer is unknown, but some risk factors include smoking, alcohol abuse, exposure to certain chemicals and irritants, a family history of cancer, and a weakened immune system.

What are the Symptoms of Larynx Cancer?

Larynx cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages, but as it grows and spreads, it can cause several signs and symptoms, such as:.

Hoarseness or voice changes that persist for more than two weeks
A cough that does not go away
A sore throat or pain when swallowing
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Ear pain or a lump in the neck
Weight loss or fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they last longer than two weeks, you should see a doctor or a specialist in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders, also known as an otolaryngologist or a head and neck surgeon.

They can perform various tests, such as a physical exam, a laryngoscopy, a biopsy, or imaging tests, to determine if you have larynx cancer and how advanced it is.

How is Larynx Cancer Treated?

The treatment for larynx cancer depends on several factors, such as the type, stage, location, and size of the tumor, as well as the patient’s age, overall health, and preferences.

The main goals of treatment are to remove the tumor, preserve the larynx’s function, and prevent the cancer from spreading or recurring.

The most common treatments for larynx cancer are:.

Surgery: This involves removing all or part of the larynx, depending on where the tumor is located. There are different types of laryngeal surgeries, such as a partial laryngectomy, a total laryngectomy, or a cordectomy, which targets the vocal cords only. Surgery may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It may be given alone or in combination with chemotherapy, which uses drugs that target and destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy can also cause side effects, such as fatigue, skin irritation, difficulty swallowing, or nausea.
Immunotherapy: This is a newer type of treatment that uses the immune system to fight cancer cells. It involves administering drugs that boost the immune response and allow it to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Immunotherapy is still being studied for larynx cancer and is not yet widely used.

In some cases, palliative care may also be recommended to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, especially if the cancer has spread or is not responding to treatment.

Palliative care may involve pain relief, counseling, spiritual support, or other therapies that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of the patient and their family.

Surviving Larynx Cancer: Stories of Resilience and Hope

Larynx cancer can be a challenging and life-changing experience, but it is not a hopeless one. Many people have survived larynx cancer and overcome its physical, emotional, and social impacts.

Here are some inspiring stories of resilience and hope from larynx cancer survivors:.

Mike Craycraft

Mike Craycraft, a retired CPA from Ohio, was diagnosed with stage IV larynx cancer in 2014 at the age of 52. He underwent surgery to remove his larynx and part of his lymph nodes, followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Although the treatment was successful in removing the cancer, it left him unable to speak or swallow normally. However, Mike did not give up and instead started a nonprofit organization called the Check Your Neck Foundation, which aims to raise awareness about head and neck cancer and encourage early detection.

Through his foundation, Mike has also supported other cancer patients and advocated for better access to care.

Scott Hamilton

Scott Hamilton, an Olympic gold medalist in figure skating and a cancer survivor, was diagnosed with larynx cancer in 1997 at the age of 38.

He underwent surgery and radiation therapy to remove the cancer, which affected his vocal cords and caused him to lose his voice temporarily. However, Scott’s love for skating and his faith in God helped him overcome the physical and emotional challenges of cancer and inspired him to become an advocate for cancer research and awareness.

He also founded the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation, which supports cancer patients and survivors and funds cancer research and education programs.

Frank Kowalski

Frank Kowalski, a retired Navy veteran from California, was diagnosed with larynx cancer in 2015 at the age of 53. He underwent surgery to remove his larynx and received speech therapy to learn how to communicate without vocal cords.

Although the treatment caused him to lose his ability to speak and swallow, Frank did not lose his spirit and sense of humor. He started a blog called Frankly Speaking About Cancer, where he shares his experiences and insights as a cancer survivor and advocate.

He also volunteers as a patient mentor at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and supports other cancer patients and caregivers.

Conclusion

Larynx cancer is a serious and complex disease that can have a significant impact on a person’s life and well-being. However, it is not a death sentence.

With early detection, proper treatment, and support, many people can survive and thrive after larynx cancer and inspire others to fight. If you have any symptoms of larynx cancer or are concerned about your risk, talk to your doctor or an ENT specialist, and take charge of your health and future.