Cancer of the larynx, vocal cords, or other parts of the throat is together referred to as throat cancer or laryngeal cancer.
It is a form of head and neck cancer that affects people of all ages and both sexes equally.
Yet, the risk of throat cancer might be increased by a number of variables. This article will discuss who is at a higher risk for developing throat cancer and how those risks might be mitigated.
Causes of Throat Cancer
Several factors increase or decrease one’s vulnerability to throat cancer:
Alcohol and Nicotine
Smoking is a major contributor to throat cancer due to the way that the chemicals in tobacco smoke have been shown to damage the throat cells, significantly raising the risk of developing cancer.
The risk of throat cancer is also increased by the irritant effect of alcohol on the cells lining the throat.
HPV Virus
An increased risk of throat cancer has been related to HPV (human papillomavirus)—a sexually transmitted infection. In fact, among young people, HPV infection is the leading cause of throat cancer.
Age and Gender
Throat cancer is more common in men than in women, and the risk rises with age.
Subpar Diet
Certain foods have high levels of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients, which work together to keep cells healthy and reduce the likelihood of cancer. For example, a diet that is rich in plant foods may reduce the risk of developing throat cancer.
Dangers in the Workplace and Hereditary Factors
Those who work in industries where they are regularly exposed to chemicals, dust, or fumes may be at a higher risk of developing throat cancer.
The chance of acquiring throat cancer may be elevated in people with a family history of the disease, as inherited mutations in genes can increase a person’s risk of developing cancer.
Prevention of Throat Cancer
The following actions will help lower your risk of developing throat cancer:
Attend Your Check-ups
Getting check-ups on a regular basis can help catch throat cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. If you are concerned about developing throat cancer, talk to your doctor or visit moffitt.org.
Reduce Your Alcohol Intake and Stop Smoking
The chance of developing throat cancer can be drastically lowered by giving up smoking and cutting back on your alcohol consumption.
Quitting smoking is one of the best ways in which you can improve your health if you want to greatly reduce your risk of developing cancer.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
The chance of developing throat cancer can be mitigated by eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
These foods in particular have high levels of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients, which work together to keep cells healthy and reduce the likelihood of cancer developing.
Practice Safe Sex
Reduce your chances of getting HPV and throat cancer by practicing safe sex. Specifically, the risk of contracting HPV can be greatly reduced by using condoms and reducing your number of sexual partners.
Protect Yourself at Work
It is essential to wear protective gear (such as masks or a respirator) if your job involves coming into contact with chemicals, dust, or fumes.
