Subtle signs of cancer radio presenter Jamie Theakston was diagnosed with when listeners ‘heard his voice’
Heart Radio presenter Jamie Theakston revealed that he has been diagnosed with Stage 1 laryngeal cancer after listeners noticed a 'change' in his voice.
Laryngeal cancer affects the larynx - also known as the voice box - which is the part of the throat at the entrance to the windpipe.
In the UK, there are more than 2,000 new cases of laryngeal cancer each year - and there are a few other possible symptoms to look out for, according to the NHS.
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On Tuesday (17 September), Theakston took to social media as he thanked listeners for prompting him to get checked out.
The 53-year-old wrote: "The biopsy has identified this as Stage 1 Laryngeal Cancer. So... I have cancer... but cancer doesn't have me!
"The prognosis is very positive and I'm hoping to be back with you in October.
"Until then, I've been told to give my voice a rest and leave you in the mostly capable hands of JK (Jason King) and Amanda (Holden).
"Big thanks to them and all the Global family who have been unbelievably supportive.
"Be thankful for this day, and when I next see you, I've got a great story to tell ... Jamie x."
A voice change is one of the many symptoms which could possibly mean laryngeal cancer.
What are the symptoms of laryngeal cancer?
Alongside having a hoarse voice, the NHS explains that other symptoms include:
- pain when swallowing or difficulty swallowing
- a lump or swelling in your neck
- a long-lasting cough or breathlessness
- a persistent sore throat or earache
- a high-pitched wheezing noise when you breathe
- in severe cases, difficulty breathing
Some people may also experience bad breath, unintentional weight loss, or fatigue.
How is laryngeal cancer treated?
The primary treatment is radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as surgery.
Often if the cancer is diagnosed early, surgery can remove the cancerous cells from the larynx.
If the cancer is advanced, a combination of treatment and surgery can be used.
Earlier this month, Theakston admitted that comments he had received from listeners led to him getting himself checked out after they noticed his voice appeared to sound different on air.
He wrote on Instagram on 1 September: "Sooo - a few of you listeners have noticed my voice hasn't sounded right these past few weeks - I've got you to thank... got it checked.
"Doctors found a lesion on my vocal chords which I've had removed this weekend - thanks for all the kind messages - should be back on my feet soon."
And while he recovers, Amanda Holden revealed that he had 'one request' for them while he was away.
Lucy Devine