Oropharyngeal cancer affects the middle part of the throat, including the tonsils, base of the tongue, soft palate, and the pharyngeal walls. Most malignant tumours in this region are squamous cell carcinomas and are increasingly linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Key Symptoms:
Persistent sore throat or pain when swallowing
Lump in the neck
Ear pain without ear infection
Voice changes or difficulty speaking
Unexplained weight loss
Risk Factors:
HPV infection (especially HPV-16)
Tobacco and alcohol use
Poor oral hygiene
Weakened immune system
Diagnosis & Treatment:
Diagnosis includes physical examination, endoscopy, imaging (MRI/CT), and biopsy. Treatment often involves radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgery, depending on the stage and location. HPV-positive cancers generally have better outcomes.
Importance of Early Detection:
Early detection improves survival and reduces complications. If symptoms persist beyond 2–3 weeks, consult an ENT specialist immediately.
Dr Ronald Chin is an Australian trained Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon.
After graduating as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Dr Chin undertook further specialised training in Head and Neck Cancer at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
He has published many research papers and is an active teacher and scholar.
As part of his subspecialty training, Dr Chin has training in Laser, Da Vinci Robotic, Flex Robotic and complex surgical techniques.
In addition to specialised Head and Neck Cancer, Dr Chin also enjoys general adult and paediatric ENT Surgery and practices sinus, snoring/sleep and general paediatric ENT Surgical procedures.
Dr Ronald Chin works as a general Otolaryngologist, offering a wide range of surgical and non-surgical treatments including ear surgery, nose surgery and throat surgery. He provides treatment for chronic conditions such as tonsillitis, sinus problems and problems with hearing.
He is also involved in the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions such as facial paralysis, head and neck cancer and sleep apnea. As well as performing surgery on children, he also provides specialist care for adults, including the treatment of throat disorders, voice loss and ear problems.
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