Radiation therapy kills cancer cells by focusing powerful X-rays at the tumor.

Laryngeal cancer may be treated with surgery to remove the cancer. All or part of the larynx, or voice box, may be removed.

The stage of a cancer is how much and how far the cancer has spread in your body. The stage of a cancer is one of the most important things to know when deciding how to treat the cancer.

Targeted therapy medicines target specific proteins or cell functions that help cancer grow. They sometimes work when chemotherapy does not. They can also have less severe side effects.

The symptoms of laryngeal cancer depend on the location and size of the tumor. Tumors are most often found on the vocal cords. Although they are not usually painful, they do cause hoarseness or changes in the voice.

Some risk factors, such as family history, may not be in your control. But others--such as smoking, alcohol use, and diet--may be things you can change.

The stage of a cancer is how much and how far the cancer has spread in your body. The most commonly used system to stage esophageal cancer is called the TNM classification.

If your healthcare provider thinks you have esophageal cancer, you'll need tests. You may have imaging tests and a biopsy.

Esophageal cancer often doesn't cause symptoms in its early stages. When this cancer does cause symptoms, they're often like those you might have with other health issues, such as indigestion.

Cancer of the esophagus can narrow your esophagus, making it difficult or painful to swallow and take in the nutrition you need. You can get help from an important member of your treatment team: the nutrition specialist.