Is Throat Cancer Curable? Latest Treatment Approaches Explained

Understanding Throat cancer

Throat cancer is a common type of cancer which often develops in the different parts of the throat, including the pharynx (upper, middle and lower part),a part of the larynx (voice box), and tonsils. The majority of throat cancers develop in the squamous cell, which generally lines the surface of the throat. If these cancers are not treated on time, these cancer cells start to spread to the nearby tissues and its lymph nodes.

Is throat cancer curable?

Yes, throat cancer is curable, especially when detected in its early stages, the chance of cure mainly depends on several important factors, including:

• The stage of cancer at the time of cancer diagnosis, 
• exact location of the tumor, 
• whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs
• The patients overall health and age
• How the patient’s body responding to cancer treatment

Many studies suggest that an early stage throat cancer has a high success rate, with many patients achieving complete remission. Even in advanced cancer stages, modern cancer treatments can control the disease, reduce the symptoms and help to extend the life expectancy of cancer patients.

Treatment approaches for Throat cancer

Advanced treatment options for throat cancer have evolved significantly. Many oncologists now focus on not only treating throat cancer but also helping to preserve speech and swallowing abilities along with improving the overall quality of life.

Surgery

Surgery is often used to remove cancerous tissue, especially in early stages of throat cancer. Modern surgical procedures have made these treatments more safe and less invasive.

Advances in surgical procedure may include:

• Minimally invasive surgeries
• Laser surgery
• Robotic- assisted surgery

These surgical procedures help to remove tumors while preserving the vital functions of the human body like speech and swallowing foods.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. These may be used as the main cancer treatment or combined with surgery or chemotherapy. Advanced radiation treatments allow precise targeting of tumors, reduce the damage to surrounding healthy tissues, and have improved treatment outcomes and long term side effects in patients.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is an effective cancer treatment that uses powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth. These treatments are commonly used in advanced stages, alongside radiation therapy (chemoradiation), when the cancer has spread beyond the throat. Chemotherapy can cause side effects such as fatigue and nausea in patients, but supportive care helps to manage these treatment-related side effects.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy is a new treatment method mainly focused on the specific molecules involved in the cancer growth. Unlike chemotherapy, targeted therapy is often designed to attack cancer cells more selectively.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is one of the most promising developments in cancer treatment. It worked by helping the body' s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. This treatment approach has been given to cancer cases, where throat cancer recurs or it does not respond to traditional cancer treatments.

Life after cancer treatment

Patients after completing their throat cancer treatments often involve regular follow-ups and lifestyle adjustments. Many oncologists encourage patients to follow a healthy lifestyle including:

• Avoid using tobacco products and smoking cigarettes
• Maintain a healthy diet and healthy weight
• Stay physically active and practise gentle exercise
• Attend routine medical check-ups

Additionally, getting strong emotional and psychological support from loved ones and family is also important, as cancer recovery majorly affects mental health as well as physical health.

Consult Today

Throat cancer is not always a life-threatening disease if diagnosed earlier. Patients are diagnosed early, and with the help of advanced treatments, many cancer cases are easily curable, while others can be effectively managed. Treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy can further improve patients' treatment outcomes.

At Oncare, we offer premium-quality cancer treatments, including advanced cancer surgeries, at an affordable price range with an experienced cancer specialist consultation.

If you or any loved ones of yours are diagnosed with cancer, then visit Oncare Cancer Center and book an appointment with our cancer specialist today. Get an estimated cost of your cancer treatments today!