Famous Celebrities Who Have Had Throat Cancer

Famous People With Throat Cancer

Throat cancer refers to cancerous tumors located in the throat (pharynx) or voice box (larynx). This disease affects approximately 20,000 people in the U.S. each year. It's most common in adults over age 50, but certain strains can also occur in younger patients. Throat cancer has impacted the lives and careers of various celebrities over the years. Some chose to share their diagnosis publicly to raise awareness, while others kept it private.

Michael Douglas

In 2010, actor Michael Douglas announced he was battling throat cancer after seeking treatment for a sore throat and ear pain. Doctors determined he had stage 4 oropharyngeal cancer at the base of his tongue. Douglas underwent 8 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, which he described as "brutal."

The actor says he believes oral sex was the cause of his type of throat cancer. He decided to share his diagnosis openly to bring public awareness and "remove the stigma" around discussing causes like HPV.

Val Kilmer

In 2015, actor Val Kilmer underwent surgery for what was eventually revealed to be throat cancer. Initially, he denied having cancer on social media. But in 2017, Kilmer finally confirmed his diagnosis after months of speculation. The cancer left his voice raspy and left him short of breath.

Kilmer has criticized the media coverage of his health, saying he "didn’t exactly want to blab" about his cancer but felt forced to due to tabloid rumors. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation to treat the disease.

Roger Ebert

In 2002, famed film critic Roger Ebert was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer which involved his thyroid and salivary glands. He underwent surgery which removed his salivary glands and affected his ability to speak or eat/drink properly.

Ebert spoke and wrote extensively about his treatments, which included radiation. He said he wanted others to understand the realities of living with cancer and became an advocate for those with facial disfigurements.

Robert De Niro

Iconic actor Robert De Niro was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2003 at age 60. He initially kept his health issue very private while undergoing treatment. In later interviews, he confirmed he had a "mild" form of prostate cancer and had "no symptoms."

The actor was treated with a nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy. He says he simply focused on his health at the time rather than going public right away. De Niro has participated in prostate cancer fundraisers and advocates for regular screenings.

Cynthia Nixon

In 2006, Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon was diagnosed with breast cancer just as the show's feature film was set to begin production. Nixon underwent six and a half weeks of radiation therapy while still working on the movie.

She spoke openly about her cancer and advocacy work for breast cancer organizations. Nixon credits regular mammograms for the early detection that allowed her to beat the disease after successful treatment.

Hugh Jackman

Australian actor Hugh Jackman has been treated for basal cell carcinoma, an extremely common type of skin cancer, multiple times. He's had carcinomas removed from his nose as well as other areas like his shoulder.

Jackman frequently shares posts about his skin checks and cancer treatment on social media. He urges fans to wear sunscreen and get regular dermatology exams. The actor has said he's grateful cancers were caught early thanks to check-ups.

Ben Stiller

Comedian Ben Stiller revealed in 2016 that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer two years prior at age 48. After a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test came back elevated, he underwent a biopsy confirming an aggressive cancer.

Stiller opted for a prostatectomy to remove the gland and was declared cancer-free a year later. He advocates for regular prostate screening exams, especially for those with family history of cancer.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus

In 2017, Veep star Julia Louis-Dreyfus announced she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She received the news one day after winning an Emmy for her role on the HBO comedy series.

Louis-Dreyfus completed chemotherapy and surgery and later confirmed she was cancer-free. She has been open about her diagnosis and treatment process and frequently posts humorous updates for fans.

Risk Factors for Throat Cancer

Throat cancer most often begins in the flat cells inside the throat and voice box. The main risk factors include:

• Tobacco smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• HPV infection
• A diet low in fruits and vegetables
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Risk increases with age, as most diagnoses occur after age 55. Men are two to three times more likely to develop throat cancers compared to women.

Tobacco and Alcohol

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes accounts for up to 75% of throat cancers. Use of chewing tobacco, snuff, and secondhand smoke also increase risk. Heavy alcohol consumption can multiply the effects of tobacco use even further.

HPV

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common sexually transmitted infection. Certain strains of HPV can infect the throat and lead to cellular changes causing cancer over time. HPV is responsible for recent rises in oropharyngeal cancers among younger non-smokers.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

GERD allows stomach acid to back up into the esophagus and throat, resulting in inflammation over many years that can turn cancerous. Risk is highest for those with long-term GERD symptoms.

Diet

Diets high in processed meats and low in fruits/vegetables also raise throat cancer risk. Certain vitamins and antioxidants found naturally in plant foods may help prevent cancerous changes.

Types of Throat Cancer

There are a few different types of cancer that can occur in the throat or voice box:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Makes up over 90% of throat cancers. Begins in the flat squamous cells that line the inside of the throat, tonsils, and larynx. Often linked to tobacco/alcohol use.

Adenocarcinoma

Develops in the mucus-producing glandular cells in the throat or tonsils. More common in those with long-term GERD.

Lymphoma

Cancer originating from lymph tissues/cells in the immune system. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is most common in the throat. Linked to problems with the Epstein-Barr virus.

Sarcoma

Rare type starting in the muscle, bone, cartilage, blood vessels, or other connective tissues. Can develop after radiation treatment for other head/neck cancers.

Throat Cancer Symptoms and Detection

Common symptoms of throat cancer include:

• A sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Ear or jaw pain
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Frequent coughing or throat clearing

See a doctor if any symptoms persist longer than two weeks. Early detection greatly improves survival rate. Throat cancer is diagnosed using exams, imaging tests, and biopsies.

Treatment Options for Throat Cancer

Treatment depends on the location and stage of cancer, but commonly involves:

• Surgery to remove cancerous tissue and lymph nodes
• Radiation to destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy drugs to shrink tumors
• Immunotherapy to boost the immune system
• Targeted therapy for specific genetic mutations

Early stage throat cancers have cure rates over 80-90%. Advanced disease is harder to treat but palliative care can help maximize quality of life.

Preventing Throat Cancer

Steps to lower your risk of developing throat cancer include:

• Avoiding all tobacco products
• Drinking alcohol only in moderation, if at all
• Getting the HPV vaccine if eligible
• Using protection during oral sex
• Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Getting regular dental exams to spot early signs

While many causes are unavoidable, limiting key risk factors offers the best defense against throat cancer.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.