Most head and neck cancers arise after prolonged exposure to known risk factors -- tobacco, alcohol, and cancer-causing agents in the workplace -- so these cancers are generally considered preventable. Some people who develop head and neck cancers, however, have no known risk factors.
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Tobacco & Alcohol Use
People who use tobacco (including smokeless tobacco) or drink alcohol excessively are at much greater risk for head and neck cancers. Smokers' risk of developing cancer of the larynx (voice box) or hypopharynx (the top portion of the esophagus) is five to 35 times that of nonsmokers. Heavy use of alcohol raises the risk of those cancers two to five times. Those who smoke and also drink heavily may be raising their risk to 100 times that of nonusers.
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Extensive Exposure to Sunlight & Other Forms of Radiation
People who have had substantial exposure to the sun are at higher than average risk for skin cancers of the head and neck region. Extensive radiation to the head and neck from diagnostic x-rays or radiation therapy increases the risk for cancer of the skin, salivary glands, and thyroid in particular.
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Other Possible Risk Factors
Other risk factors for head and neck cancer include poor oral hygiene, exposure to occupational inhalants such as asbestos or wood dust, poor nutrition, gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, and a weakened immune system.
