Illustration of stage IV laryngeal carcinoma in both the glotic and supraglottic regions of the larynx. Like all cancers, laryngeal cancer is the result of uncontrolled division by the body's cells. As these cells divide and accumulate, a mass develops. The larynx is positioned in the anterior neck and plays a critical role in normal breathing, swallowing, and speaking. Damage to the larynx or its tissues can result in interference with any or all of these functions. Treatment for this cancer usually involves radiation therapy, surgery, or a combination of the two.