Throat Cancer in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Throat cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that can affect the pharynx (throat) or larynx (voice box), and the term is sometimes used to include cancers of the esophagus and thyroid gland. Understanding the signs, risk factors, and local treatment options in Grand Rapids, MI can help you seek care early and improve outcomes.

What Is Throat Cancer?

The throat (pharynx) is a hollow tube that starts behind the nose and runs down to the esophagus (food pipe) and trachea (windpipe). Throat cancer most often begins in the lining (mucosa) of the throat, which is made up of flat cells called squamous cells.

In Michigan, hundreds of people are diagnosed with cancers of the throat and voice box each year. In the Grand Rapids area, these cancers are typically treated at major centers such as:

  • Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) – Butterworth Hospital & Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)
  • Mercy Health / Trinity Health network clinics
  • With public health support from the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health programs

Types of Throat Cancer

Pharyngeal Cancers (Cancers of the Throat)

These are grouped under head and neck cancers and can affect different parts of the pharynx:

  • Nasopharyngeal cancer (nasopharynx)
    Affects the upper part of the throat, behind the nose and soft palate.

  • Oropharyngeal cancer (oropharynx)
    Affects the middle part of the throat, including:

    • Soft palate
    • Base of the tongue
    • Tonsils

  • Hypopharyngeal cancer (hypopharynx)
    Affects the lower part of the throat around the voice box (larynx).

Laryngeal Cancer (Cancer of the Voice Box)

The larynx (voice box) is a short passage that connects the lower throat (hypopharynx) to the trachea (windpipe). Key parts include:

  • Epiglottis – a small flap of tissue that covers the larynx when you swallow so food does not enter the trachea and lungs.
  • Glottis – contains the vocal cords, which vibrate as air passes through to produce sound.
  • Subglottis – the area below the vocal cords.

Cancer that starts in the larynx is called laryngeal cancer.

Thyroid and Esophageal Cancers Sometimes Included

The thyroid gland sits in front of the trachea under the voice box. Some types of thyroid cancer and esophageal cancer may be discussed along with throat cancers because of their close location and overlapping symptoms.

How Throat Cancer Develops and Spreads

Most throat cancers start in the squamous cells lining the throat. This is called squamous cell carcinoma. Without treatment, it can:

  • Grow into deeper tissues, including muscle and bone
  • Spread to lymph nodes in the neck
  • In some thyroid cancers, invade nearby structures like the trachea, which can cause breathing problems
  • Travel (metastasize) to other parts of the body, such as the lungs

Because of this, early diagnosis and treatment are critical. Many people in Grand Rapids receive coordinated care with ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialists, head and neck surgeons, and oncologists at local cancer centers.

Symptoms of Throat Cancer

Early Symptoms May Be Subtle

In the early stages, throat cancer symptoms may be mild or not noticeable. Many symptoms can also be caused by common illnesses such as colds, sinus infections, or allergies—especially during Michigan’s long cold winters and allergy seasons in spring and fall. The only way to know for sure is to see a doctor or dentist for an evaluation.

Common Symptoms of Pharyngeal and Laryngeal Cancer

Symptoms may include:

  • A lump or swelling in the neck or throat
  • Persistent sore throat that does not improve
  • Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
  • Voice changes or hoarseness lasting more than 2–3 weeks
  • A constant cough, sometimes with blood (spitting or coughing up blood)
  • Throat pain or discomfort when speaking or swallowing
  • Bad breath that does not go away
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Difficulty breathing or feeling like your air supply is blocked
  • Ear pain, frequent ear infections, or hearing loss
  • Blocked nose or ear on one side
  • Numbness of the face
  • Headaches

If you notice any of these symptoms for more than a couple of weeks, especially if you smoke or drink alcohol, contact your Grand Rapids primary care provider, ENT specialist, or visit a local clinic for assessment.

Risk Factors for Throat Cancer

Several factors can increase your risk of developing throat cancer.

Tobacco and Alcohol

  • Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes
  • Chewing tobacco or using smokeless tobacco
  • Heavy alcohol use

Using tobacco and drinking alcohol together greatly increases the risk. The combination allows other carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) to enter and damage cells more easily.

In West Michigan, where tobacco and alcohol use remain common in some communities, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake are powerful steps to lower throat cancer risk.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

The human papillomavirus (HPV)—the same virus that causes most cervical cancers—causes about 70% of oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the tonsils and base of tongue).

  • HPV is usually spread through vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
  • In most people, HPV clears from the body on its own.
  • In some people, HPV infection of the mouth and throat becomes persistent, damaging cells over time and leading to oropharyngeal cancer.
  • Symptoms can take months or even years to develop.

Other Risk Factors

  • Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) – the virus that causes glandular fever/mono
  • Family history of cancer (genetic predisposition)
  • Poor diet, especially low intake of fruits and non-starchy vegetables
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Chronic goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland)
  • Radiation exposure to the head and neck
  • Long-term exposure to certain chemicals or industrial fumes

In Michigan, seasonal patterns can influence risk behaviors—people may smoke more indoors during long winters and be less physically active. Maintaining healthy habits year-round is important.

HPV, Vaccination, and Throat Cancer Prevention in Grand Rapids

The best protection against HPV-related throat cancers is HPV vaccination, ideally given before sexual activity begins.

  • The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteens and teens, typically ages 9–12, and catch-up vaccination is recommended up to age 26.
  • In the Grand Rapids area, you can access HPV vaccination through:
    • Your primary care provider or pediatrician
    • Kent County Health Department clinics
    • Local pharmacies that offer immunizations
    • School-based or community vaccination programs supported by Grand Rapids Public Health

The vaccine significantly reduces the risk of HPV-related oropharyngeal and cervical cancers.

How Throat Cancer Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

Initial Evaluation

Your GP (primary care doctor) or dentist will usually start with:

  • A physical examination of your mouth, throat, and neck
  • A review of your medical history and risk factors
  • Possible blood tests

If throat cancer is suspected, you will be referred to a specialist (such as an ENT, head and neck surgeon, or oncologist) at a local health system like Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – U of M Health–West, or Mercy Health.

Specialist Tests

Diagnosis may include one or more of the following:

  • Laryngoscopy
    A procedure (often under general anesthesia) where a tube with a light and camera (laryngoscope) is inserted through the mouth to view the larynx and surrounding areas.

  • Endoscopy of the larynx
    A thin tube with a light (endoscope) is passed through the nose to examine the throat and voice box.

  • Nasendoscopy
    Done under local anesthetic using a flexible tube with a light and camera (nasendoscope) to examine the nose and throat.

  • Videostroboscopy
    A small flexible tube with a camera and strobe light is passed through the nose to view the larynx and record vocal cord movement.

  • Imaging tests

    • X-ray
    • Ultrasound
    • CT scan
    • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
    • PET (positron emission tomography) scan

  • Biopsy
    A small sample of tissue is taken from the suspicious area and examined in a lab to confirm if cancer is present and determine its type.

  • Thyroid scan (if thyroid cancer is suspected)
    A special imaging test done after a small amount of radioactive material is injected.

Test results can take a few days. It is normal to feel anxious while waiting—many patients in Grand Rapids find it helpful to talk with a trusted friend or family member, and to reach out to local cancer support services.

Treatment Options for Throat Cancer in Grand Rapids

Treatment depends on:

  • The type of throat cancer
  • The size and location of the tumor
  • Whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body
  • Your overall health

In Grand Rapids, treatment is typically coordinated through multidisciplinary teams at major centers such as Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion (Corewell Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids Cancer Center, and Metro Health – U of M Health–West.

1. Surgery

Surgery aims to remove the tumor and any affected tissue. This may involve:

  • Removing part or all of the:
    • Larynx (laryngectomy)
    • Tongue (glossectomy) – partial or total
    • Thyroid gland (partial or total thyroidectomy)
    • Surrounding tissue or muscle
  • Removing nearby lymph nodes in the neck if cancer has spread

After surgery, you may need:

  • Speech therapy (especially after laryngectomy or tongue surgery)
  • Dietary advice and support with swallowing
  • Ongoing rehabilitation, often available through local speech-language pathologists and rehab programs in Grand Rapids.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be used:

  • As a primary treatment for some early-stage throat cancers
  • After surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence
  • In combination with chemotherapy (chemoradiation) for more advanced cancers

Radiation is usually given in small, precise doses over several weeks at hospital-based cancer centers.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses cancer-killing drugs to:

  • Shrink tumors
  • Treat cancer that has spread (metastasized) beyond the throat and neck
  • Enhance the effect of radiation therapy (chemoradiotherapy)

Because chemotherapy travels through the bloodstream, it treats the whole body.

4. Combined (Multimodal) Treatments

Many people receive a combination of:

  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Sometimes immunotherapy (drugs that help your immune system attack cancer)

Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific situation by your Grand Rapids oncology team.

When Throat Cancer Cannot Be Cured

If throat cancer has spread widely and cannot be cured by surgery or other treatments, doctors may still recommend treatment to:

  • Control the cancer’s growth
  • Relieve symptoms such as pain or breathing difficulty
  • Improve quality of life
  • Help you live longer and more comfortably

This may include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Surgery to relieve obstruction or symptoms
  • Immunotherapy
  • Symptom-relieving medications (for pain, nausea, anxiety, etc.)

Palliative Care in Grand Rapids

You may hear your doctor refer to palliative care. This does not mean “giving up.” Palliative care:

  • Can be provided at the same time as active cancer treatment
  • Focuses on managing symptoms, emotional support, and quality of life
  • Supports you and your family, not just your physical health

Palliative care services are available through major health systems in Grand Rapids, including home-based, outpatient, and hospital-based programs.

Side Effects and Long-Term Care

All throat cancer treatments can have side effects, which vary based on the type and intensity of treatment. These may include:

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Dry mouth
  • Changes in taste
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Changes in thyroid function
  • Long-term changes in speech or breathing (especially after laryngectomy)

Many side effects are temporary, but some can be permanent. Your doctor will discuss possible side effects before treatment begins. Long-term follow-up may include:

  • Regular check-ups with your ENT or oncologist
  • Imaging tests to monitor for recurrence
  • Speech therapy
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Support from social workers, psychologists, and support groups

Reducing Your Risk of Throat Cancer in Grand Rapids

You can’t completely eliminate the risk of throat cancer, but you can lower your risk and improve overall health.

1. Quit Smoking and Avoid Tobacco

  • Stop smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes.
  • Avoid chewing tobacco and other smokeless tobacco products.
  • Seek help through:
    • Your Grand Rapids primary care provider
    • Michigan Tobacco Quitline
    • Local hospital-based smoking cessation programs

2. Reduce Alcohol Intake

  • Limit or avoid alcohol, especially heavy or daily drinking.
  • If you drink, do so in moderation.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

  • Focus on a diet rich in:
    • Non-starchy vegetables (leafy greens, broccoli, peppers)
    • Fruits
  • A healthy diet may help lower the risk of oropharyngeal and laryngeal cancers.
  • Work with a dietitian if you need help planning meals—many are available through Grand Rapids health systems.

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight and Stay Active

  • Aim for a healthy body weight.
  • Stay physically active year-round, even during Michigan’s cold winters (indoor walking, home workouts, community centers).

5. Practice Safer Sex

  • Use condoms or internal (female) condoms to reduce the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.
  • Limit the number of sexual partners and consider regular sexual health check-ups.

6. Get Vaccinated Against HPV

  • Ensure children and teens receive the HPV vaccine at the recommended ages.
  • Adults up to age 26 who missed vaccination should ask their doctor about catch-up HPV vaccination.
  • Access vaccination through:
    • Kent County Health Department
    • Local GPs and pediatricians
    • Participating pharmacies

Following these steps cannot guarantee that you will never develop throat cancer, but they significantly reduce risk and provide many other health benefits.

Local Resources and Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids

If you are worried about throat cancer symptoms, risk factors, or a recent diagnosis, reach out for professional help and support.

Medical Care and Diagnosis

  • Your GP / primary care doctor
  • ENT specialists and oncologists at:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) – Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – U of M Health–West
    • Mercy Health / Trinity Health clinics

Public Health and Prevention

  • Kent County Health Department – vaccinations (including HPV), tobacco cessation programs, and cancer screening information
  • Grand Rapids Public Health programs and community clinics

Support Services

  • Hospital-based cancer support programs (social work, nutrition, psychological support)
  • Speech-language pathologists in Grand Rapids for speech and swallowing therapy
  • Local and national head and neck cancer support groups (online and in-person)

Key Points About Throat Cancer in Grand Rapids

  • Throat cancer includes pharyngeal (throat) and laryngeal (voice box) cancers and is part of the broader group of head and neck cancers.
  • Early symptoms may be mild or resemble common illnesses, so persistent changes in your throat, voice, or neck should be checked promptly.
  • Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and HPV infection are major risk factors.
  • HPV vaccination, quitting tobacco, reducing alcohol, and eating a healthy diet are important prevention strategies for people in Grand Rapids and across Michigan.
  • Local hospitals and clinics in Grand Rapids provide advanced diagnostic tests, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care for throat cancer.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes and reduce complications.

If you notice ongoing throat or neck symptoms, contact a Grand Rapids healthcare provider as soon as possible for evaluation. Early action can make a significant difference.