Overview

Nasopharyngeal cancer originates in the nasopharynx (behind the nose, above the throat). It is closely associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, together with genetic and environmental factors.

According to GLOBOCAN 2022, there are about 120,000 new cases worldwide each year, more common in Southeast Asia including Vietnam. It is often diagnosed late because early symptoms resemble common ENT conditions.

• Early stage: 5-year survival can exceed 80–90% with radiotherapy, chemotherapy or multimodal treatment.
• Late stage: may spread to neck lymph nodes or metastasize distantly.

Risk factors

• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.
• Family history.
• Diet high in fermented, smoked or long-preserved foods.
• Tobacco and alcohol use.
• Exposure to polluted environments and irritant chemicals.

Stages of nasopharyngeal cancer

• Stage 0: Abnormal cells in the mucosal layer, no invasion.
• Stage 1: Tumor confined to the nasopharynx, small.
• Stage 2: Affects nearby areas or spreads to neck lymph nodes.
• Stage 3: Larger tumor invading surrounding structures and multiple nodes.
• Stage 4: Metastasis to distant organs such as lungs, liver, bones.

Nasopharyngeal cancer screening

At GC&Phenikaa, customers are assessed and screened with ENT specialist examination, endoscopy of the ENT region using a modern endoscopy system, and biopsy/histopathology when indicated.