Smoking is the biggest risk factor for head and neck cancer in the United States. The more one smokes, the greater the risk (number of years and number of cigarettes). Alcohol definitely adds to this risk further. In the U.S., 75% to 80% of those with head and neck cancer are smokers and/or alcohol drinkers. Other risk factors for head and neck cancers are a family history, HPV infection (human papilloma virus), radiation exposure, occupational exposures, chewing tobacco or betel nuts, poor dental hygiene, and maybe dietary factors. In China and other places, infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a big risk.
Smoking is the biggest risk factor for head and neck cancer in the
United States. The more one smokes, the greater the risk (number of
years and number of cigarettes). Alcohol definitely adds to this
risk further. In the U.S., 75% to 80% of...
More
Dr. Bruce Brockstein of NorthShore University HealthSystem answered:Smoking is the biggest risk factor for head and neck cancer in the United States. The more one smokes, the greater the risk (number of years and number of cigarettes). Alcohol definitely adds to this risk further. In the U.S., 75% to 80% of those with head and neck cancer are smokers and/or alcohol drinkers. Other risk factors for head and neck cancers are a family history, HPV infection (human papilloma virus), radiation exposure, occupational exposures, chewing tobacco or betel nuts, poor dental hygiene, and maybe dietary factors. In China and other places, infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a big risk.
