Sometimes, the lining of the vocal cords or another part of the larynx can develop into a malignant growth (Cancer). Cancer of larynx commonly occurs in elderly and predominantly affects males.

The main causative factors include smoking, alcohol and occupational exposure of carcinogenic chemicals.

The signs and symptoms of throat cancer include hoarseness and pain in the throat. If large it can cause difficulty in breathing, a lump in the neck, pain radiating to the ear and cough.

The treatment of the cancer depends upon site and extent of the disease and includes options of radiotherapy and surgery.