The hypopharynx is the uppermost portion of the esophagus (the tube through which food travels to the stomach) and surrounds the larynx (voice box). As with most other head and neck cancers, tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption are the most common risk factors. Other risk factors for hypopharyngeal cancer can include a diet low in vitamins A and E, and Plummer-Vinson syndrome (a rare condition that causes difficulty swallowing). Symptoms of hypopharyngeal cancer may include chronic throat pain, a lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty or pain with swallowing, and ear pain.