Laryngeal cancer is one of the most common tumours of the head and neck. It mainly affects people aged between 35 and 60. According to recent evidence, sufferers are now getting younger, and women are also increasingly affected.

The most common cause for cancer of the larynx is smoking. The risk also increases with regular alcohol consumption, exposure to pollutants such as arsenic, chromium and nickel, and reflux of gastric acid to the larynx.

Symptoms include persistent hoarseness - lasting for several weeks, a change in your voice, a frequent need to clear your throat, and feeling that there is a lump in your throat. Early diagnosis increases the chances of successful treatment and preservation of the larynx. Every smoker and people exposed to any of the other risk factors should be screened for laryngeal cancer at least once a year.

Screening in our practice includes examination of the mouth, nose and throat and laryngoscopy with a high-magnification endoscope. This will indicate even small changes in the vocal cords.

The costs for cancer screening are not covered by the statutory health insurance scheme and are invoiced as an IGeL service in accordance with the German Medical Fee Schedule (Gebührenordnung für Ärzte - GOÄ).