07/20/2023
What causes cancers of the head and neck?
Alcohol and to***co use, this includes smokeless to***co, are the two most important risk factors for head and neck cancers, especially cancers of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. At least 75% of head and neck cancers are caused by to***co and alcohol use. People who use both to***co and alcohol are at greater risk of developing these cancers than people who use either to***co or alcohol alone.
Infection with cancer-causing types of human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV type 16, is a risk factor for some types of head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers that involve the tonsils or the base of the tongue. In the United States, the incidence of oropharyngeal cancers caused by HPV infection is increasing, while the incidence of oropharyngeal cancers related to other causes is falling.
For more important information please visit, https://fingerlakesmd.com/skin-oncology/head-and-neck-cancer/