The more Common Cancers in the United States The most common cancers include breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and skin cancer (melanoma). However, other less common cancers can be equally serious. Head and neck cancers, for example, account for 100% of skin cancers. 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 begin in the sinuses, nose, mouth, throat, larynx, lips, and salivary glands. Tobacco use, alcohol use, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are among the main risk factors for head and neck cancer.
It is also significantly more common in men than women and in black people than white people. If detected early, many head and neck cancers are curable, but sometimes they can be prevented in the first place.
Here are seven ways to help reduce your risk of head and neck cancer.
1. Do not smoke or use tobacco products
Using tobacco products, such as cigarettes and chewing tobacco, can significantly increase the risk of developing head and neck cancer. In fact, smoking and tobacco use are the biggest risk factors for this group of cancers. Up to 80% 80% of head and neck cancers are related to tobacco use. Not only should you quit smoking if you smoke, but you should also 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 that secondhand smoke can affect your recurrence rate and survival.
2. Limit alcohol consumption
Like tobacco, alcohol can cause cancer and is a known risk factor for head and neck cancer. It is also an important risk factor for recurrence in the survivors.
He The risk increases the more you drinkTherefore, it is possible to reduce the risk by stopping drinking or drinking in moderation. This means up to one alcoholic drink per day for women.
3. Get vaccinated against HPV
HPV is a common viral infection. It is also a risk factor for several types of cancer, including head and neck cancers that begin in the back of the throat.
HPV vaccines can Preventing oral HPV infectionswhich may reduce certain types of head and neck cancer, such as throat and back of the mouth cancer. Since HPV is one of the three main risk factors for head and neck cancer, along with tobacco and alcohol use, talking to a health care provider about HPV vaccination may reduce your risk.
Watch: How to talk to your health care provider about getting the HPV vaccine as an adult >>
4. Practice adequate sun protection
Some cancers that occur in the head and neck begin in the lips. Therefore, excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation may increase the risk of developing head and neck lip cancers. Some strategies for reduce the risk The main causes of head and neck cancers include applying sunscreen to the lips, wearing wide-brimmed hats, and avoiding tanning beds.
5. Less exposure to toxins in work environments
There is a link between head and neck cancers and certain occupations. Cooks, cleaners and painters may be at risk. increased risk due to toxins in their workspaces. However, taking certain precautions, such as wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), could help reduce risks. If you are concerned about the risk of exposure at work, talk to your supervisor or HR representative. If you feel like you are not being heard, consider Filing a complaint with OSHA.
6. Schedule annual dental visits for routine exams
Since some head and neck cancers begin in the mouth, it’s important to practice proper oral care. This includes home care, such as brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental visits. There are no routine screening tests for head and neck cancers, but your dentist can look for cancerous lesions in your mouth during routine exams.
It’s generally recommended to 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 a resource for underserved areas as well.
7. Ask a health care professional about screening tests
Early detection of head and neck cancer could Increase your survival ratebut there are no official guidelines for routine screening. Further research Studies are currently underway to determine whether screening prevents deaths from head and neck cancer.
For now, you should assess your risk for head and neck cancer. If you are at risk, talk to your health care provider about how you can get screened.
This educational resource was created with support from Merck.
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