Back to Menu
What is laryngeal cancer?
Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor occurring in the larynx, and most cases are squamous cell carcinoma. Its development is a multistep process. According to the anatomical site of origin, it can be classified as glottic, supraglottic, or subglottic cancer. It is a common head and neck malignancy worldwide.
Main types and classification of laryngeal cancer
1.Glottic laryngeal cancer
The most common type, arising from the vocal cords, and hoarseness often occurs early.
2.Supraglottic laryngeal cancer
Located above the vocal cords; symptoms are often occult, and early cervical lymph node metastasis is more likely.
3.Subglottic laryngeal cancer
Arises below the vocal cords; relatively rare and difficult to diagnose early.
4.Squamous cell carcinoma
Accounts for the vast majority of laryngeal cancers and is closely associated with smoking and alcohol consumption.
5.Adenocarcinoma
Relatively rare and arises from glandular tissue.
6.Undifferentiated carcinoma
Highly malignant, rapidly progressive, and associated with a poor prognosis.
Etiology of laryngeal cancer
1.Tobacco use: Smoking is the most important risk factor for laryngeal cancer.
2.Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake has a synergistic effect with tobacco.
3.Viral infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infections.
4.Occupational exposure: Long-term exposure to asbestos, wood dust, and other toxic substances.
5.Age and sex: More common in men and typically occurs in individuals older than 55 years.
6.Gastroesophageal reflux: Chronic reflux irritates the laryngeal mucosa.
Prevention and health maintenance for laryngeal cancer
1.Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation
Quit smoking completely and avoid secondhand smoke; limit alcohol intake to reduce synergistic carcinogenic risk.
2.HPV prevention
HPV vaccination, condom use, and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce HPV-related infections.
3.Healthy diet
Increase intake of fruits and vegetables, reduce preserved foods, and maintain balanced nutrition and a healthy body weight.
4.Regular examinations
High-risk populations should undergo regular laryngoscopic examinations. Hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks warrants prompt medical evaluation.
5.Occupational protection
Wear masks when exposed to toxic substances, ensure adequate ventilation, and undergo regular occupational health examinations.
Conclusion
Jinshazhou Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine emphasizes that prevention and control of laryngeal cancer require reducing tobacco and alcohol exposure and improving awareness of early diagnosis. Individualized strategies integrating surgery, chemoradiotherapy, and other modalities based on stage, together with MDT-based multidisciplinary collaboration, can substantially improve outcomes, preserve function, and enhance quality of survival.
What is laryngeal cancer?
Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor occurring in the larynx, and most cases are squamous cell carcinoma. Its development is a multistep process. According to the anatomical site of origin, it can be classified as glottic, supraglottic, or subglottic cancer. It is a common head and neck malignancy worldwide.
Main types and classification of laryngeal cancer
1.Glottic laryngeal cancer
The most common type, arising from the vocal cords, and hoarseness often occurs early.
2.Supraglottic laryngeal cancer
Located above the vocal cords; symptoms are often occult, and early cervical lymph node metastasis is more likely.
3.Subglottic laryngeal cancer
Arises below the vocal cords; relatively rare and difficult to diagnose early.
4.Squamous cell carcinoma
Accounts for the vast majority of laryngeal cancers and is closely associated with smoking and alcohol consumption.
5.Adenocarcinoma
Relatively rare and arises from glandular tissue.
6.Undifferentiated carcinoma
Highly malignant, rapidly progressive, and associated with a poor prognosis.
Etiology of laryngeal cancer
1.Tobacco use: Smoking is the most important risk factor for laryngeal cancer.
2.Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake has a synergistic effect with tobacco.
3.Viral infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infections.
4.Occupational exposure: Long-term exposure to asbestos, wood dust, and other toxic substances.
5.Age and sex: More common in men and typically occurs in individuals older than 55 years.
6.Gastroesophageal reflux: Chronic reflux irritates the laryngeal mucosa.
Prevention and health maintenance for laryngeal cancer
1.Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation
Quit smoking completely and avoid secondhand smoke; limit alcohol intake to reduce synergistic carcinogenic risk.
2.HPV prevention
HPV vaccination, condom use, and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce HPV-related infections.
3.Healthy diet
Increase intake of fruits and vegetables, reduce preserved foods, and maintain balanced nutrition and a healthy body weight.
4.Regular examinations
High-risk populations should undergo regular laryngoscopic examinations. Hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks warrants prompt medical evaluation.
5.Occupational protection
Wear masks when exposed to toxic substances, ensure adequate ventilation, and undergo regular occupational health examinations.
Conclusion
Jinshazhou Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine emphasizes that prevention and control of laryngeal cancer require reducing tobacco and alcohol exposure and improving awareness of early diagnosis. Individualized strategies integrating surgery, chemoradiotherapy, and other modalities based on stage, together with MDT-based multidisciplinary collaboration, can substantially improve outcomes, preserve function, and enhance quality of survival.