HEALTH TIP

Recognizing Potential Signs of Throat Cancer

It can be difficult to detect throat cancer in its early stages. Common signs and symptoms of throat cancer include:

• a change in your voice
• trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
• weight loss
• sore throat
• constant need to clear your throat
• persistent cough (may cough up blood)
• swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• wheezing
• ear pain
• hoarseness

Make a doctor’s appointment if you experience any of these symptoms and they do not improve for a duration exceeding two to three weeks.

Causes and Risk Factors for Throat Cancer

Men are more likely to develop throat cancer than women. Certain lifestyle habits increase the risk of developing cancer of the throat. These include:

• smoking
• excessive alcohol consumption
• vitamin A deficiency
• exposure to asbestos
• poor dental hygiene