What Is Nasal Cancer?

Cancer of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is rare, but you are at a greater risk if you are a smoker. Learn other factors increase your risk.

*Health information sourced from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. co-pay.com is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government.

Your paranasal sinuses are small hollow spaces around the nose. They are lined with cells that make mucus, which keeps your nose from drying out. The nasal cavity is the passageway just behind your nose. Air passes through it on the way to your throat as you breathe.

Cancer of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is rare. You are at greater risk if you are:

  • Male and over 40 years old
  • Exposed to certain workplace chemicals
  • Infected with HPV
  • A smoker

There may be no symptoms at first, and later symptoms can be like those of infections. Doctors diagnose nasal cancer with imaging tests, lighted tube-like instruments that look inside the nose, and biopsies. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

NIH: National Cancer Institute

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