Risk factors for throat cancer
There is no single cause of throat cancer.
A risk factor is something that may increase your chance of developing cancer. It does not mean you will definitely get cancer. Equally, some people are diagnosed with throat cancer without having any obvious risk factors.
Knowing the risks matters because some can be reduced, some can be managed, and all of them help explain why early symptoms should never be ignored.
Tobacco
Smoking is one of the major risk factors for cancers of the mouth, throat and voice box. This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other tobacco products.
Tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can damage cells in the mouth, throat and larynx. The longer someone smokes, and the more they smoke, the greater the risk.
Chewing tobacco and betel quid can also increase the risk of some head and neck cancers.
Stopping smoking can reduce risk over time. It is never too late to stop, and support is available through your GP, pharmacy or local stop smoking service.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol increases the risk of several head and neck cancers, including cancers affecting the mouth, throat and voice box.
The risk is higher for people who drink heavily, and higher again for people who both smoke and drink. Tobacco and alcohol together are more harmful than either risk factor on its own. Cancer Research UK and Macmillan both highlight tobacco and alcohol as key risk factors for head and neck cancers.
Current UK guidance says it is safest not to drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week, for both men and women, and to spread drinking over three or more days if regularly drinking that amount.
If you are worried about your drinking, speak to your GP. Help is available.
Human papillomavirus, or HPV
HPV is a very common virus. Most people will come into contact with HPV at some point in their lives, and most will never know they have had it. In most cases, the body clears the virus naturally without it causing any problems.
Some types of HPV are known as high-risk HPV. If a high-risk HPV infection persists, it can sometimes lead to cancer. HPV is now recognised as an important risk factor for some throat cancers, especially cancers of the oropharynx — the area that includes the tonsils and base of tongue.
This needs to be talked about carefully. HPV-related throat cancer is not about blame, shame or lifestyle judgement. HPV is common, usually symptomless, and can remain in the body for many years.
The HPV vaccine helps protect against HPV and reduces the risk of cancers caused by HPV. NHS England states that HPV vaccination protects against some mouth and throat cancers, as well as cervical, anal and genital cancers.
Diet and nutrition
A healthy, balanced diet supports general health and may help reduce the risk of some cancers. Diets low in fruit and vegetables, or high in processed foods, red meat and fried foods, have been linked with increased risk in some head and neck cancers.
This does not mean diet alone causes throat cancer. It means nutrition is one part of a wider risk picture.
For people already undergoing treatment, eating and drinking can become very difficult. If you are struggling with swallowing, weight loss or nutrition, ask your clinical team for support from a dietitian or speech and language therapist.
Oral health
Poor oral health may increase the risk of some cancers in the mouth and nearby areas. Regular dental check-ups are also important because dentists may spot changes in the mouth, tongue, gums or throat area that need further investigation.
See a dentist or GP if you notice ulcers, red or white patches, unexplained bleeding, a lump, or any change in your mouth or throat that does not go away.
Workplace and environmental exposures
Some workplace exposures can increase the risk of certain head and neck cancers. These can include asbestos, strong acid mists, wood dust, formaldehyde and other industrial substances, depending on the type and level of exposure. Cancer Research UK identifies asbestos and strong inorganic acid mists as linked with laryngeal cancer risk, and wood dust as a risk factor for nasopharyngeal cancer.
People who work around dusts, fumes or chemicals should follow workplace safety guidance and use appropriate protective equipment.
Age, sex and family history
The risk of many head and neck cancers increases with age. Some types are more common in men than women, although anyone can be affected.
A family history of head and neck cancer may increase risk for some people. This does not mean throat cancer is usually inherited, but it is worth telling your GP or consultant if close relatives have had head and neck cancers.
Body weight and general health
Living with overweight or obesity is linked to an increased risk of several cancers and may play a role in head and neck cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating well and reducing alcohol all support overall health.
This should never be used to blame people diagnosed with cancer. Risk factors are about prevention and awareness, not judgement.
The signs still matter
Risk factors are only part of the picture. Symptoms matter more.
Do not ignore:
- a hoarse or croaky voice that does not go away
- a lump in the neck
- pain or difficulty swallowing
- a persistent sore throat
- ear pain
- unexplained weight loss
- coughing up blood
- the feeling that something is stuck in the throat
If symptoms last for more than three weeks, get checked.
It is probably nothing. But if it is something, finding it earlier can make a real difference.
Prevention where we can. Early diagnosis where we can’t.
Need Support?
There is lots of help available though and we have compiled a list of useful resources which will guide you through the support that is available to patients and their families.