What are the symptoms of throat cancer?

DR AKHIL CHOPRA, Senior Medical Oncologist at OncoCare Cancer Centre, writes about this not-so-common cancer – including why symptoms of throat cancer are easy to miss and why early detection matters.

Though not among the most common cancers, throat cancer has gained attention in recent years following high-profile diagnoses in celebrities like Val Kilmer and Michael Douglas. Throat cancer refers to cancers that develop in the pharynx, larynx or tonsils. A closely related condition, nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC), arises in the upper part of the throat, behind the nose. If not treated early, these cancers can interfere with speaking, swallowing and breathing and significantly impair quality of life.

Those at risk in Singapore

Throat cancer affects both men and women, but men – especially over 40 – are at higher risk. Ethnicity plays a role too. Nasopharyngeal cancer is more common in Asian populations, particularly among southern Chinese communities. It is far less common in Caucasians. Meanwhile, oropharyngeal and laryngeal cancers, more strongly linked to smoking and alcohol, occur across all ethnicities.

Throat cancer risk factors: smoking, viruses and pickled veggies?

Smoking remains the number one risk factor for most throat cancers. Long-term tobacco use, including secondhand smoke, increases your chances of developing cancer in the larynx and surrounding areas. Heavy alcohol consumption further raises this risk.

Another culprit is HPV, a sexually transmitted infection now linked to a rising number of throat cancers globally, including in Singapore. These cancers often affect the tonsils or base of the tongue in younger adults who do not smoke or drink. Infection with Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is also a known risk factor for NPC.

Some studies suggest that diets high in salted or fermented vegetables, common in some Asian cuisines, may play a role too. These foods may contain nitrosamines, compounds linked to cancer development.

Symptoms of throat cancer & warning signs you shouldn’t ignore

Throat cancer can be tricky because symptoms are vague and may resemble those of a stubborn cold or sinus infection. Look out for a persistent sore throat, hoarseness lasting more than two weeks, a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, one-sided nosebleeds or blockage and unexplained weight loss.

Screening and diagnosis

There’s no routine screening test for throat cancer. Diagnosis typically begins with a visit to an ENT specialist, followed by a nasoendoscope exam, imaging like CT or MRI scans and possibly a tissue biopsy. For those with a family history, regular ENT check-ups or newer blood-based genetic tests may help with early detection.

Treatment options in Singapore

Throat cancer treatment depends on tumour location, stage and the patient’s overall health. Options include:

• Surgery, particularly for cancers involving the voice box or tonsils. Minimally invasive techniques, such as robot-assisted surgery, are becoming more common.
• Early-stage cancers may be treated with radiation therapy. Singapore offers cutting-edge options such as proton therapy, which delivers radiation with greater accuracy.
• Chemotherapy may be used on its own or in combination with radiation, especially for more advanced stages.
• Immunotherapy and targeted therapies are newer treatment options, typically reserved for advanced or recurrent cancers.

Given the complexity of throat cancer care, it’s crucial to seek treatment at multi-disciplinary cancer centres, where patients can benefit from a team-based approach. Centres such as OncoCare Cancer Centre and public hospital cancer institutes like NCCS and NUH offer integrated care involving ENT surgeons, oncologists, speech therapists, dietitians and rehabilitation specialists – all working together to deliver the best possible outcomes.

OncoCare Cancer Centre has locations at Gleneagles, Gleneagles Annexe, Mount Elizabeth Novena, Mount Elizabeth Orchard, Mount Alvernia, Royal Square Medical Centre and Thomson Medical Centre.
6250 8160 | oncocare.sg | enquiries@oncocare.sg

This article on symptoms of throat cancer and OncoCare Cancer Centre first appeared in the July 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy.

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