Risk Factors and Presentation Pattern of Laryngeal Cancer

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Laryngeal carcinoma accounts for about 1% of all cancers and 30–40% of head and neck malignancies worldwide, with significant gender disparity and regional variation, including in Bangladesh [1–3]. In view of its strong association with tobacco, alcohol, and betel quid chewing and the frequent late-stage presentation locally, this study was conducted to evaluate the risk factors and presentation patterns of laryngeal cancer. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the risk factors and clinical presentation patterns of laryngeal cancer among affected patients. Methods & Materials: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January 2025 to December 2025, including 80 patients with newly diagnosed laryngeal cancer. Demographic details, risk factors, clinical symptoms, tumor location, and TNM stage were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, with categorical variables expressed as frequencies and percentages and continuous variables as mean ± standard deviation. Results: Among 80 patients, the mean age was 56.2 ± 11.1 years, with the majority aged 50–69 years, and males predominating (81.3%). The most common risk factors were combined smoking with betel use (53.8%) and smoking alone (31.3%). Hoarseness of voice was the predominant symptom (56.3%). Tumors were primarily located in the glottic region (52.5%), and most patients presented at advanced stages (62.5%). Conclusion: Laryngeal cancer predominantly affects older males with high exposure to tobacco and betel use, commonly presents with hoarseness and glottic involvement, and is often diagnosed at advanced stages, emphasizing the need for early detection and targeted risk factor mitigation.