Nasopharyngeal Cancer (NPC):
Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of head and neck cancer that starts in the upper part of the throat behind the nose. It is more common in places like Southeast Asia and is often linked to a virus called Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
Early signs of NPC can be hard to notice. They may include a lump in the neck, nosebleeds, hearing loss, pain or ringing in the ear, or headaches. Because these signs are not always clear, many people don’t get diagnosed until the cancer is in a later stage. Most people who get NPC are between ages 45 and 59.
If caught early, NPC can be treated well—up to 95% of people with early-stage NPC live at least five years after diagnosis. But if it’s found late, that number drops to about 50%. That’s why researchers are working on better ways to find people at risk earlier. NPC is usually treated with radiation, chemotherapy, or both.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV):
EBV is a very common virus. It spreads through saliva, blood, or sexual contact. Many people get it as children and don’t even know because they don’t feel sick. EBV can stay “asleep” in the body for years and may “wake up” later in life.
In some people, EBV infects cells in the throat and makes them grow quickly. This can sometimes lead to cancer, like NPC. However, most people who get EBV will NOT get cancer.
EBV Blood Screening (Serology-Based Screening):
When your body fights EBV, it makes special proteins called antibodies. A simple blood test can check for these antibodies. Based on the results, doctors can tell if someone is at high, medium, or low risk for NPC. This kind of test may help catch the cancer earlier, when it’s easier to treat.
Other risk factors include having a family member with NPC, tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, and having a diet high in salt-cured fish and meats. Men are more likely to develop NPC than women.
To learn more about current treatment guidelines for head and neck cancer, including NPC, please visit: NCCN Guidelines, new
SURVIVOR STORY
Alliance Ambassador Brad Johnson experienced a headache that would not go away. After several months, Brad was diagnosed in his 20’s with nasopharyngeal cancer that had spread to his sinuses and lymph nodes.
When his doctors shared that they were unaware of any effective treatments, Brad learned of a clinical trial being held across the country, which he then joined. In 2004, Brad was declared cancer-free, and 21 years later, he is immensely grateful for the emerging science that the clinical trial made possible.
“I sought a space where I could regain control of my physical self, which launched my journey into the world of endurance sport. Through sport, I’ve been able to raise funds for cancer programs, including through the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance’s Move-a-Thon.” Today, Brad and his wife live in the Charleston, SC area where they are the proud parents of two daughters. “I am grateful for the Alliance, which allows me to share my voice to connect with other patients and survivors and remind people to continue to have hope.”
