Factors Associated with the Development of Laryngeal Cancer
Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of head and neck cancers, according to recent studies. Additionally, long-term exposure to carcinogens such as wood dust, paint fumes, asbestos, benzene, solvents, aerosols, diesel engine exhaust, and silica in the workplace can also increase the risk of both laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers.
Beyond tobacco use and alcohol consumption, there are several other risk factors for laryngeal cancer. One such factor is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly certain strains linked to head and neck cancers. Poor nutrition, especially diets deficient in essential vitamins like vitamin A, can also contribute to the development of these cancers.
Age and gender are also significant factors. Men and people over the age of 55 have a higher risk of developing laryngeal cancer. The majority of people diagnosed with laryngeal cancer are over 66, with the average age at diagnosis being 66.
Family history is another risk factor, as those with a family history of head and neck cancers may have an increased risk. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also increase the risk of laryngeal cancer, as chronic acid reflux can irritate the larynx.
Other risk factors include radiation exposure, infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, a weakened immune system, poor oral hygiene, and certain genetic syndromes like Fanconi anemia (FA) and dyskeratosis congenita (DC).
People who consume both alcohol and tobacco have a greater risk of developing head and neck cancers. Exposure to secondhand smoke may also increase the risk, although further research is necessary to understand the link.
Help is available for those struggling with alcohol use disorder, and the doctor may recommend medications like nicotine patches, lozenges, or gums to help quit smoking. The free smoking cessation hotline number is 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
It's important to note that anyone with one or more risk factors for laryngeal cancer may want to consult a doctor for information and advice on reducing their risk. Symptoms of laryngeal cancer include a sore throat or persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, a lump in the throat or neck, hoarseness, or other changes to the voice. If individuals have risk factors for head and neck cancer, it's important to contact a doctor to rule out anything serious.
The American Cancer Society lists seven risk factors for laryngeal cancer, with tobacco use being the most significant risk factor. The HPV vaccine can help prevent the infection, and certain types of HPV infections can increase the risk of oropharyngeal cancer or cancer of the throat, tonsils, or soft palate. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, affecting up to 20% of the United States population.
In conclusion, while tobacco use and moderate to heavy alcohol consumption are established risks for head and neck cancers, there are several other factors that can contribute to the development of these cancers. It's important to be aware of these risks and to take steps to reduce them, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy diet. If individuals have risk factors for head and neck cancer, they should consult a doctor to discuss their risk and potential steps to reduce it.
[1] American Cancer Society [3] Mayo Clinic [4] National Cancer Institute
- The American Cancer Society lists the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection as a risk factor for head and neck cancers, specifically certain strains linked to these cancers.
- Poor nutrition, particularly diets deficient in essential vitamins like vitamin A, can contribute to the development of laryngeal cancer, a type of chronic disease that falls under oncology.
- Family history is another significant risk factor for laryngeal cancer, as those with a family history of head and neck cancers may have an increased risk.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, affecting up to 20% of the United States population, can increase the risk of laryngeal cancer.
- For those struggling with alcohol use disorder, help is available, and medical-conditions like chronic diseases such as cancer can be managed through health-and-wellness practices, fitness-and-exercise, mental-health services, and proper nutrition.
- In addition to tobacco use and alcohol consumption, risk factors for head and neck cancers include radiation exposure, infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, a weakened immune system, poor oral hygiene, and certain genetic syndromes like Fanconi anemia (FA) and dyskeratosis congenita (DC).
