Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Nasopharyngeal cancer is a disease in which cancer originates in the tissues of the nasopharynx—the upper part of the throat (pharynx) behind the nose. Nasopharyngeal cancer most commonly starts in the squamous cells that line the nasopharynx.
Nasopharyngeal cancer is a type of head and neck cancer, which includes cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx (voice box), paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, and salivary glands. According to the National Cancer Institute, it was estimated that about 72,680 cases of head and neck cancer would be diagnosed in the United States in 2025, and about 16,680 patients would die of this disease. Globally, less than 1 out of 100,000 people are diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma each year.
Nasopharyngeal cancer is more common among men and is diagnosed more often among people over age 50. It is also more likely that those from or having ancestry associated with certain parts of Asia, North Africa, and the Arctic will be diagnosed with this disease.
Risk factors for nasopharyngeal cancer include heavy alcohol consumption, using tobacco or being exposed to secondhand smoke, being infected with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), having a diet high in salt-cured fish and meats, and having a family history of nasopharyngeal cancer.
Nasopharyngeal Cancer Treatment (Adult) (PDQ®)Source: National Cancer Institute
You can support the AACR's mission by contacting your representatives and senators and advocating for increased funding for lifesaving cancer research.
Learn More
