The more common cancers in the United States include breast, lung, colon and skin (melanoma). However, less common cancers can be just as serious. Head and neck cancers, for example, are responsible almost 4% of all cancers in the United States and affects tens of thousands of people worldwide.
Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that start in the sinuses, nose, mouth, throat, larynx, lips and salivary glands. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption and human papillomavirus (HPV) are among the main risk factors for head and neck cancers.
It is also significantly more common in men than women and in blacks than whites. When caught early, many head and neck cancers are curable, but sometimes you can prevent them in the first place.
Here are 7 ways to reduce your risk of head and neck cancer.
1. Do not smoke or use tobacco products
The use of tobacco products, such as cigarettes and chewing tobacco, can significantly increase the risk of head and neck cancers. In fact, smoking and tobacco use is the biggest risk factor for this group of cancers. Up to 80% of head and neck cancers are linked to tobacco use. Not only should you stop smoking if you do, you should stop using all tobacco products, including cigars, pipes and snuff.
People with a history of head and neck cancer should also avoid exposure to secondhand smoke during remission. Some research suggests that passive smoking can affect their relapse and survival rate.
2. Limit your alcohol use
Like tobacco, alcohol can cause cancer and is a known risk factor for head and neck cancers. It is also a major risk factor for relapse to survivors.
The the risk increases the more you drink, so it is possible to reduce the risk by stopping smoking or drinking in moderation. That’s up to one alcoholic drink a day for women.
3. Get the HPV vaccine
HPV is a common viral infection. It is also a risk factor for various cancers, including head and neck cancers that start in the back of the neck.
HPV vaccines can prevention of oral HPV infections, which could reduce some head and neck cancers, such as throat and back mouth cancers. Since HPV is one of the three main risk factors for head and neck cancers—along with tobacco and alcohol use—asking a health care professional about the HPV vaccination could reduce your risk.
Watch: How to Talk to Your Health Care Provider About Getting the HPV Vaccine as an Adult >>
4. Wear appropriate sun protection
Some head and neck cancers start in the lips. Thus, excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation could increase the risk of developing head and neck lip cancer. Some strategies to reduce the risk of head and neck cancers include applying sunscreen to the lips, wearing wide-brimmed hats, and avoiding tanning beds.
5. Lower exposure to toxins in occupational settings
There is a link between head and neck cancers and certain occupations. Cooks, cleaners and painters can be in higher risk due to toxins in their workplaces. However, taking certain precautions, such as using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), could help reduce the risks. If you have concerns about the risk of exposure at work, talk to your supervisor or human resources representative. If you don’t feel heard, think filing a complaint with OSHA.
6. Schedule annual dental visits for regular checkups
Since some head and neck cancers start in the mouth, it’s important to practice proper oral care. This includes home care such as brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist. There are no routine screening tests for head and neck cancers, but your dentist can look for cancerous lesions in the mouth during routine exams.
It is generally recommended that you schedule a dental checkup once or twice a year. These visits may be covered by your private health care plan, but dental insurance is not covered in all plans offered under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). You may be able to find free or low-cost dental services near you. Mobile dental clinics are sometimes also a resource for underserved areas.
7. Ask a healthcare professional about screening
Early detection of head and neck cancer could increase your survival ratebut there are no official guidelines for routine screenings. More research it is currently being done to see if screenings prevent deaths from head and neck cancer.
For now, you should assess your risk for head and neck cancers. If you are at risk, ask your healthcare provider how you can get screened.
This educational resource was created with the support of Merck.
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