Can throat polyps develop into laryngeal cancer?

Throat polyps usually do not develop into laryngeal cancer directly, but if they are stimulated for a long time, continue to worsen, or coexist with other high-risk factors, they may increase the risk of cancer. Timely treatment of polyps and improvement of lifestyle habits are important methods of prevention.

1 Causes of throat polyps:

Throat polyps are benign hyperplasia of the throat mucosa, often caused by long-term overuse of the vocal cords, such as loud talking, singing, tobacco and alcohol stimulation, long-term exposure to harmful chemicals, or chronic inflammation such as chronic pharyngitis. Environmental pollution and allergic constitution may be predisposing factors. Usually, polyps themselves are benign, but if they are not treated for a long time, the risk of lesions may increase due to chronic irritation.

2. The relationship between throat polyps and cancer:

Throat polyps are benign lesions, but the chance of cancer is closely related to individual conditions. If the patient has high-risk factors, such as long-term smoking, alcoholism, untreated HPV infection, or someone in the family has laryngeal cancer, the risk of cancer will increase. Recurrent pharyngitis or external stimuli may accelerate the deterioration process. Regular inspection and monitoring of changes in polyps is very important. Once the polyps are found to be enlarged, unusual in appearance, or accompanied by symptoms such as hoarseness and difficulty swallowing, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.

3 How to treat and prevent cancer risk:

Drug treatment: For mild throat polyps, anti-inflammatory drugs such as loxoprofen sodium and mucosal protectants such as carboxymethyl cellulose can be used to reduce inflammation and observe changes in the condition.

Surgical treatment: For polyps that persist, are large in size, or are accompanied by symptoms, they can be treated through laryngoscopic vocal cord polypectomy. Laser surgery is also a commonly used method with less trauma and quick recovery.

Improve your living habits: quit smoking and drinking, avoid spicy food, and keep the indoor air moist. Pay attention to vocal hygiene and reduce the burden on the vocal cords; those who need to use their voice for a long time can receive voice training.

Regular physical examinations, especially for those with a family history of laryngeal cancer or long-term throat discomfort, should be performed regularly by laryngoscopy. Throat polyps are usually curable, and the key is early detection, early diagnosis, and early treatment to prevent further lesions.