Persistent sore throat may signal cancer

A medical expert warns that a lingering sore throat could be an early sign of head and neck cancer and urges timely medical review.

Sore throat lasting three weeks may signal cancer

An oncologist warns that a sore throat lasting more than three weeks could be an early indicator of cancer, though most cases are not serious. Dr Jiri Kubes, medical director at Prague's Proton Therapy Centre, says persistent throat symptoms can precede cancers in the head and neck region, including the throat, larynx, and mouth. Cancer Research UK estimates about 12,800 new head and neck cancer cases are diagnosed each year in the UK.

Watch for symptoms such as ongoing hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, ear pain without infection, or a lump in the neck. Risk factors include smoking and heavy alcohol use, but HPV infections are linked to rising cases among younger adults. If a sore throat lasts more than three weeks or comes with other signs, see a GP. Treatments exist, and early detection can improve outcomes with options such as proton beam therapy.

The story shows how common symptoms can mask serious disease. It reminds readers to seek timely medical advice when symptoms persist instead of self-diagnosing. Public health messages should balance awareness with reassurance, avoiding unnecessary alarm while encouraging people to listen to their bodies.

It also highlights changes in the disease landscape. The link to HPV and cases among younger adults point to shifting risk profiles, which may affect screening and treatment strategies. The piece praises advances in targeted therapies like proton beam treatment, underscoring the value of early diagnosis for better outcomes while noting the limits of over-interpretation in everyday care.

Highlights

Clear guidance helps people act on uncertainty without fueling fear.