About Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Hypopharyngeal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the hypopharynx.
The hypopharynx is the bottom part of the pharynx (throat). The pharynx is a hollow tube about 5 inches long that starts behind the nose, goes down the neck, and ends at the top of the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus (the tube that goes from the throat to the stomach). Air and food pass through the pharynx on the way to the trachea or the esophagus.
Most hypopharyngeal cancers form in squamous cells, the thin, flat cells lining the inside of the hypopharynx. The hypopharynx has 3 different areas. Cancer may be found in 1 or more of these areas.
Hypopharyngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Signs and symptoms of hypopharyngeal cancer include a sore throat and ear pain. These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by hypopharyngeal cancer or by other conditions. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Ongoing sore throat
- Ear Pain
- Lump in the neck
- Pain or difficulty swallowing
- Change in voice
Use of tobacco products and heavy drinking can affect the risk of developing hypopharyngeal cancer.
Risk factors include the following:
- Smoking tobacco
- Chewing tobacco
- Heavy alcohol use
- Eating a diet without enough nutrients
- Having Plummer-Vinson syndrome
Your Experts in Hypopharyngeal Cancer
When you or someone you love is facing hypopharyngeal cancer, we put our medical knowledge and concerned hearts to work, supporting you with everything we’ve got. Our experienced oncologists treat this specific cancer with the utmost expertise and compassion, and will design a well-rounded treatment plan with your whole health in mind.
Find Us in Your Community
Across the nation, each of our locations offering cancer treatment contributes to the strength of the AdventHealth Cancer Institute network. Explore your options for care close to home with the guidance of our dedicated team. We’ll help you find the right fit, so you’re in the best setting to get the care you need.