The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 9000 cases of laryngeal cancer were diagnosed in the United States in 2002.

The larynx and vocal cords sit above the trachea and are the entrance to the lungs. The larynx makes the sounds for speaking and protects the airway during swallowing. The vocal cords change the sound and pitch of the vice. They close tightly when a person swallows and open to allow breathing.

Laryngectomy is the removal of the larnyx from the neck, usually due to cancer. After a total laryngectomy, a person must use a new way of breathing and a new sound source for speech.

Diagnosis of laryngeal cancer does not always mean surgical removal of the entire larynx. Depending on the size, location, and time of cancer detection, one or more of the following approaches may be used: radiation therapy, chemotherapy, partial laryngectomy. In other cases, total laryngectomy, with or without radiation therapy or chemotherapy, may be the only life-saving solution. During this operation, a new route for breathing is surgically created. The larynx-end of the trachea is connected to a that is made in the neck. Rather than using the mouth and the nose, the person with the laryngectomy will breathe through this hole.

The causes of laryngeal cancer

Smoking: More than 95 percent with laryngeal cancer are smokers.

Alcohol: This acts as a promoter of the cancer causing process making it another important risk factor for laryngeal cancer. Alcohol and smoking increase the risk of getting laryngeal cancer by 100% compared to being a smoker only or alcohol user only.

Other risk factors: Certain viruses, such as human papilloma virus (HPV), acid reflux, and occupational exposure to asbestos contribute to laryngeal cancer.

Signs and symptoms of laryngeal cancer:

• Persistent hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent sore throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Lump in neck

The only way to diagnose laryngeal is to see an Ear, Nose and Throat physician.