The cancer may spread to lymph nodes in the neck. The tumor is treated with radiation therapy. If the tumor is large or persists, surgery may be needed. Cancer of the Tonsil Cancer of the tonsil occurs predominantly in men and is strongly linked to smoking and alcohol consumption. Usually, a sore throat is the first symptom.
Pain often radiates to the ear on the same side as the affected tonsil.
Treatment includes both radiation therapy and surgery. Surgery may involve removal of the tumor, lymph nodes in the neck, and part of the jaw. About 50 percent of the people survive for at least 5 years after diagnosis. Cancer of the Larynx Cancer of the larynx, the most common cancer of the head and neck except for skin cancer, is more common in men and is linked to cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption. This cancer commonly originates on the vocal cords, causing hoarseness.