Laryngeal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the larynx (voice box), most often in squamous cells lining the area. Common symptoms include persistent hoarseness, a chronic cough, a sore throat, ear pain, and difficulty or pain when swallowing. The biggest risk factors are smoking and heavy alcohol consumption, though workplace exposure and HPV are also contributing factors. Treatments include radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy, with the effectiveness highly dependent on early diagnosis. Symptoms Persistent hoarseness or a sore throat that doesn't go away A chronic cough Pain or difficulty swallowing Ear pain A lump or mass in the neck Difficulty breathing or a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound Causes and risk factors Tobacco use and alcohol consumption: The combination of both is a major risk factor. Workplace exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, dusts, and fumes can increase risk. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection: HPV is a risk factor for some head and neck cancers. Age and sex: It is more common in people over 55, and significantly more common in men, partly due to higher rates of smoking and heavy alcohol use in the past. Diet: A diet low in certain vitamins may also contribute. Diagnosis and treatment A healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and may recommend further tests, such as a laryngoscopy to look inside the larynx, or imaging scans like CT or MRI. Early-stage laryngeal cancer can often be cured with surgery or radiotherapy alone. For more advanced cancers, treatment may involve a combination of surgery to remove all or part of the larynx, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery can affect the ability to speak and breathe in the usual way. You will need additional treatment, such as an implant or a speaking valve, to restore your voice. Survival rates The survival rate depends heavily on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. Laryngeal cancer that has not spread has a much better 5-year relative survival rate (around 84%) compared to cancer that has spread to distant regions (around 45%). Laryngeal Cancer: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - Cleveland Clinic Age: Laryngeal cancer happens more in people age 55 and older. Sex: Men are about five times more likely to develop this cancer, p... Cleveland Clinic Laryngeal Cancer Treatment - NCI 12 Feb 2025 — Laryngeal cancer forms in the tissues of the larynx (area of the throat that contains the vocal cords). The larynx incl... National Cancer Institute (.gov) Laryngeal Cancer Symptoms, Causes and Survival Rate 26 May 2023 — This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by. Beomjune B. Kim, DMD, MD, FACS, Head and Neck and Mic... Cancer Treatment Centers of America Show all