Which symptom is commonly associated with laryngeal cancer?

Which symptom is commonly associated with laryngeal cancer?

• A. Shortness of breath.
• B. Hoarseness or change in voice.
• C. Abdominal pain.
• D. Joint swelling.

Answer: (B)

Hoarseness or a change in voice is the symptom most commonly associated with laryngeal cancer because the cancer often involves the vocal cords inside the larynx, altering their vibration and how the voice sounds. This presents as a persistent hoarse, raspy, or breathy voice that lasts weeks and prompts further evaluation with laryngoscopy. Shortness of breath can occur if the airway becomes blocked in advanced disease, but it is not the typical early sign. Abdominal pain and joint swelling do not relate to laryngeal cancer and are unlikely presentations. Persistent voice change for more than a couple of weeks warrants investigation for possible laryngeal malignancy.

Hoarseness or a change in voice is the symptom most commonly associated with laryngeal cancer because the cancer often involves the vocal cords inside the larynx, altering their vibration and how the voice sounds. This presents as a persistent hoarse, raspy, or breathy voice that lasts weeks and prompts further evaluation with laryngoscopy. Shortness of breath can occur if the airway becomes blocked in advanced disease, but it is not the typical early sign. Abdominal pain and joint swelling do not relate to laryngeal cancer and are unlikely presentations. Persistent voice change for more than a couple of weeks warrants investigation for possible laryngeal malignancy.