Charlie Watts treated for throat cancer

Aug 15 2004

The drummer for The Rolling Stones Charles Robert "Charlie" Watts is currently being treated for throat cancer. He is reported to be at the end of a six-week course of radiotherapy after being diagnosed in June of this year.

Formed in 1962, The Rolling Stones have become one of the world's most widely recognized and popular bands.

Cancer of the throat involves malignant tumors (growths) on the vocal cords, voice box (larynx), or other areas of the throat.

People who smoke or otherwise use tobacco are at risk of developing tumors of the throat. Excessive alcohol use also increases risk, and smoking and alcohol use together constitute an extreme risk for the development of throat cancers.

Most cancers of the throat develop in adults older than 50, and men are 10 times more likely than women to develop throat cancers.

Throat cancers can be cured in 90% of patients if detected early. If the cancer has spread to surrounding tissues or lymph nodes in the neck 50-60% of patients can be cured. If the cancer has spread (metastasized) to parts of the body outside the head and neck, the cancer is not curable and treatment is aimed at prolonging quality of life.