As a survivor of throat cancer, the first question people ask is, “are you ok now?” My answer is, “yes, I am in remision”. The second question is, “what was the cause?” To help answer this, I wrote this article to create awareness around the subject, to shed some light on the casues and in particular encourage people to take steps to mitigate the risks.
Throat cancer, also known as oropharyngeal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the throat, which includes the voice box (larynx), the back of the tongue, and the tonsils. It is a serious condition that can lead to difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing. Understanding the causes of throat cancer is important for prevention and early detection.
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Tobacco use: One of the leading causes of throat cancer is tobacco use. Smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars, as well as using smokeless tobacco, can increase the risk of developing throat cancer. The harmful chemicals in tobacco can damage the cells in the throat and lead to the development of cancerous cells.
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Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption is another risk factor for throat cancer. Alcohol can irritate and damage the cells in the throat, which can lead to the development of cancerous cells. The risk is further increased if alcohol is consumed in combination with tobacco use.
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Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that can increase the risk of developing throat cancer. Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, have been linked to the development of throat cancer. HPV-related throat cancer is more common in younger people, and it is often diagnosed at a later stage than non-HPV related throat cancer.
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Poor diet: A poor diet that is low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed and red meat can increase the risk of developing throat cancer. A diet that is lacking in important nutrients can weaken the immune system and make it more difficult for the body to fight off cancer cells.
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Occupational exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as asbestos and nickel, can increase the risk of developing throat cancer. People who work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and mining may be at a higher risk of exposure to these chemicals.
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Genetics: While rare, there are certain genetic mutations that can increase the risk of developing throat cancer. People with a family history of throat cancer may be at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.
In conclusion, throat cancer is a serious condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HPV infection, poor diet, occupational exposure, and genetics. While some of these risk factors may be beyond our control, there are steps we can take to reduce our risk of developing throat cancer. Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, and practicing safe sex can all help to reduce the risk of developing throat cancer. Additionally, regular screenings and early detection are crucial in improving the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
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