By Swift Reporter
The death of Tooro Prince David Kijanangoma Araali after a long battle with throat cancer has once again drawn attention to a disease that can develop in different parts of the throat and surrounding structures, sometimes remaining unnoticed until it has become advanced.
Kijanangoma died on Tuesday at the Uganda Cancer Institute in Mulago while undergoing treatment, according to Tooro Kingdom spokesperson Vincent Mugume. His family had previously said that he had been diagnosed with Stage Three throat cancer and had appealed for financial assistance to support specialised treatment.
But what exactly is throat cancer, what causes it, and which warning signs should people never ignore?
What Is Throat Cancer?
“Throat cancer” is a general term commonly used to describe cancers that develop in parts of the throat, including the pharynx, or in the larynx, commonly known as the voice box.
The pharynx has different sections, including the nasopharynx, oropharynx and hypopharynx, while the larynx contains the vocal cords. Cancer can develop in different areas, meaning symptoms and treatment can vary depending on where the tumour begins.
Many cancers of the throat and surrounding structures are squamous cell carcinomas, which develop from thin cells lining these areas.
What Causes Throat Cancer?
There is no single cause in every patient. However, several factors can significantly increase the risk.
Tobacco use is one of the major risk factors. Cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco products have all been linked to cancers of the mouth, throat and voice box.
Alcohol consumption is another important risk factor. Regular heavy alcohol use increases the risk of cancers affecting the mouth, pharynx and larynx. The risk can be particularly high when alcohol and tobacco are used together.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is also associated with some cancers of the oropharynx, particularly cancers affecting the tonsils and base of the tongue. HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancers have become increasingly recognised, although HPV does not cause every type of throat cancer.
Other factors can include a previous head and neck cancer and certain exposures or medical circumstances. Importantly, having a risk factor does not mean someone will definitely develop cancer, while some people develop the disease without an obvious risk factor.
One of the challenges with throat cancer is that some symptoms can resemble ordinary throat infections or other less serious conditions.
According to the US National Cancer Institute and CDC, warning signs can include:
- A persistent sore throat
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- A lump in the throat or neck
- Persistent hoarseness or changes in the voice
- Persistent ear pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty moving the tongue or opening the mouth fully
- A sore or abnormal patch in the mouth that does not heal
- Coughing up blood
- Problems with breathing or speaking.
Having these symptoms does not automatically mean a person has cancer, because many other conditions can cause similar problems. However, symptoms that persist or worsen should be assessed by a qualified health professional.
Like many cancers, the outlook for throat cancer can depend heavily on the type, location and stage at which it is diagnosed.
Doctors may examine the mouth, throat and neck and use additional tests to determine whether cancer is present and whether it has spread. Treatment is then based on factors including the cancer’s stage, location, the patient’s overall health and, in some cases, whether the tumour is associated with HPV.
Treatment can involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy, depending on the specific cancer and its stage. Some patients require a combination of treatments.
Can Throat Cancer Be Prevented?
Not every case can be prevented, but people can reduce some of the known risks.
Avoiding tobacco is one of the most important steps. Reducing or avoiding alcohol can also lower cancer risk. HPV vaccination can help prevent infections with HPV types associated with certain cancers, including some oropharyngeal cancers.
Regular medical attention is particularly important for people experiencing persistent throat, swallowing or voice problems.
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