Nasopharyngeal cancer is more common in Malaysia and Southeast Asia than many people realise. Because it develops in a hidden area behind the nose, early symptoms are often subtle and easily mistaken for sinus issues, ear infections, or a lingering cold. As a result, diagnosis is sometimes delayed.
Understanding what nasopharyngeal cancer is, who is at higher risk, and when to seek medical advice can make a real difference. With early detection and timely treatment, outcomes can be significantly improved.
The nasopharynx is located at the upper part of the throat, behind the nose and above the roof of the mouth. It plays an important role in breathing and hearing. Cancer in this area may affect nearby nerves, the ears, and surrounding structures, which explains why symptoms can feel confusing or unrelated at first.
Nasopharyngeal cancer is classified based on how the cancer cells appear under a microscope. The three main types are:
Keratinising squamous cell carcinoma (Type 1)
Non-keratinising squamous cell carcinoma (Type 2)
Undifferentiated carcinoma (Type 3)
In Malaysia and other parts of Southeast Asia, non-keratinising and undifferentiated types are more commonly seen and are often associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection.
Nasopharyngeal cancer does not have a single cause. Many people who develop it have no obvious symptoms early on. However, certain factors are known to increase risk:
Tobacco and alcohol
Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption increase the risk of head and neck cancers. Tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco, is a major risk factor. Exposure to second-hand smoke may also contribute.
Gender
Men are approximately twice as likely as women to develop nasopharyngeal cancer.
Age
The risk increases with age, particularly after 50, although it can occur at younger ages.
Dietary habits
Frequent consumption of salted, preserved, or cured foods (such as salted fish and preserved meats) has been linked to higher risk.
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection
EBV is strongly associated with nasopharyngeal cancer, although most people exposed to EBV do not develop cancer.
Family history
Having a close relative with nasopharyngeal cancer increases individual risk.
Early symptoms often feel mild or resemble common conditions, which is why they are sometimes overlooked. In many cases, symptoms only become noticeable when the disease has progressed.
Symptoms to watch for include:
A painless lump in the neck
Persistent nasal congestion or blockage
Hearing difficulty or hearing loss
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Ear pain or a feeling of fullness in one ear due to fluid build-up
Difficulty breathing or speaking
A persistent sore throat
Frequent nosebleeds
Recurrent headaches
Blurred vision
Persistent fatigue
If these symptoms persist or worsen, especially if you have risk factors, medical evaluation is advisable.
When nasopharyngeal cancer is suspected, your doctor will begin with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Further tests help confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the disease.
A thin, flexible tube with a camera is gently passed through the nose to allow direct visualisation of the nasopharynx. This procedure helps detect abnormal tissue and is generally well tolerated.
If an abnormal area is seen, a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Imaging studies help assess the size of the tumour and whether it has spread. These may include:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
Computed tomography (CT) scan
Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
Chest X-ray
Based on these findings, the cancer stage is determined and an appropriate treatment plan is developed.
Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Care is tailored to balance effectiveness with quality of life.
Nasopharyngeal cancer is highly sensitive to radiation, making it a key treatment option. High-energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth.
Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to target cancer cells throughout the body. It is often combined with radiation therapy, especially in more advanced stages.
Targeted treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies, help the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells or block signals that promote tumour growth. These therapies are often used alongside chemotherapy or radiation.
Surgery is not usually the primary treatment because of the complex anatomy of the nasopharynx. However, it may be considered in selected cases, such as removing lymph nodes that do not respond to other treatments.
While not all cases can be prevented, certain steps may help reduce risk:
Limit intake of salted, preserved, and fermented foods.
Quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
Follow workplace safety measures to minimise exposure to harmful fumes or dust.
Reduce exposure to known carcinogens such as wood dust and formaldehyde.
Screening may be recommended for individuals at higher risk, particularly in regions where the disease is more common.
Blood tests
These may detect antibodies linked to EBV, which is associated with nasopharyngeal cancer.
Nasopharyngoscopy
A fibre-optic scope is used to examine the nasal passages and nasopharynx for early signs of abnormal tissue.
Regular medical evaluation and timely screening are especially important for those with risk factors or persistent symptoms.
Nasopharyngeal cancer often develops quietly, with symptoms that may seem mild or unrelated at first. If you are at higher risk, or if symptoms persist despite treatment for common conditions, early specialist assessment is important.
At Prince Court Medical Centre, our oncology and Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT) teams work closely to provide comprehensive evaluation, timely diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans.
Contact us today to book an appointment for expert and timely assessment, early detection, and care tailored to your needs.Be the first in line to receive the latest updates and promotions, delivered directly to your inbox.
Please enter a valid email
Thank you for subscribing!
Please verify that you are not a robot.
