Carcinoma of the respiratory tract can be benign or malignant, with the majority being malignant. It is more common in males, urban dwellers, and smokers. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, while anaplastic carcinoma metastasizes earliest. Symptoms include cough, hemoptysis, dyspnea, pain, malaise, and weight loss. Treatment involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, with physiotherapy before and after procedures to clear secretions and improve breathing.