What is Nasopharyngeal Cancer/NPC?

Nasopharyngeal Cancer, also known as nasopharynx cancer or NPC, is the cancer of the back of the nose and upper throat. That area is called the nasopharynx, hence the name of the disease.

How common is NPC?

NPC is considered rare in the west. However, it is most common amongst the Chinese population. Areas that are particularly affected are Taiwan, Hong Kong and the southern provinces of China like Guangdong. Due to its distribution, it has been given the nickname "Cantonese Cancer". Closer to home, National Cancer Centre of Singapore reports that NPC is the 8th most common cancer amongst men here, and is also 7th when it comes to cancer deaths for men. It is the 8th most common cancer for Chinese men and 7th most common cancer for Malay men in Singapore.

What are the survival rates for NPC?

According to the American Cancer Society, the relative 5-year survival rates for NPC is as follows:

• Stage 1: 72%
• Stage 2: 64%
• Stage 3: 62%
• Stage 4: 38%
This suggests that early detection is key for successful treatment of NPC.
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How is NPC detected?

Usually NPC is detected when patients consult the doctor regarding lumps in the throat or around the neck. A biopsy is then ordered and sample cells are taken to be grown. Recently, screening technology has been developed that is able to detect potential NPC growth before physical signs are noticable. At ResteLab, we currently use an ELISA-based test that is more specific and give less false positives then the current gold standard screening technology.