What is Nasopharyngeal Cancer (NPC)?

Nasopharyngeal Cancer (NPC) is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose. While it is uncommon globally, it is more prevalent in Southeast Asia, making it a regional health concern. Early detection is vital for effective treatment and improved outcomes.

Types of NPC

NPC is generally categorised based on its histological type:

• Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma (KSCC): Less common and typically associated with smoking.
• Non-Keratinizing Carcinoma (NKC): More common in Southeast Asia and strongly linked to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
• Basaloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma (BSCC): A rare and aggressive subtype.

Risk factors of Nasopharyngeal Cancer?

1. Certain ethnicities
   • Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is more common in Southeast Asia, Southern China and Northern Africa. In Malaysia, NPC is most common in Chinese and indigenous populations (especially Bidayuh).
2. Lifestyle and environment
   • Tobacco and smoking
   • Eating salted fish from childhood increases risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma as they can be very high in nitrates and nitrites and can form nitrosamines
3. Infection
   • Increased risks of NPC are seen in patients who are tested positive for the Epstein Barr virus
4. Gender
   • Men are 2 times more likely than women to develop Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Symptoms of Nasophayngeal Cancer?

NPC symptoms often resemble common illnesses but require attention when persistent. Key symptoms include:

• Bleeding from the nose, also known as epistaxis
• Fullness in ears
• Ringing in the ears, also known as Tinnitus
• Hearing loss
• Nasal stuffiness
• Double vision
• Lump in the neck caused by swollen lymph nodes
• Frequent headaches
• Facial numbness

NPC diagnosis involves:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Assessing symptoms and risk factors.
• Nasopharyngoscopy: Using a camera to view the nasopharynx.
• Biopsy: Collecting tissue samples to confirm cancer.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans to determine the extent and stage.

Treatment for NPC

Treatment options for nasopharyngeal cancer depend on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and preferences. Common treatments include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and in some cases, surgery.

Prevention of NPC

While some risk factors cannot be avoided, the following steps can reduce the risk of NPC:

• Avoid Smoking: Steer clear of smoking and secondhand smoke.
• Healthy Diet: Limit consumption of preserved or salted foods.
• Regular Screenings: Essential for individuals with a family history or high-risk factors.
• Infection Control: Reduce exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).