Common Habits That Could Lead to Head and Neck Cancer:

Everyday habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, and chewing paan may appear harmless on the surface, but they greatly increase the risk of one’s head and neck region cancer.

The first two, tobacco and alcohol, are the most common and recognized causes. Each can be harmful on their own, so imagine the scenarios when combined. The likelyhood of mouth, throat, and voice box cancers increases dramatically. Most of the cancers like the squamous cell carcinoma have a substantial history with both substances.

HPV: A Leading Modern Cause

As mentioned earlier, other risk factors include the Human papillomavirus or HPV infection. For instance, HPV of type 16 is a major cause for concern. It’s one of the main reasons for oropharyngeal cancers which affect the base of the tongue and the tonsils. HPV does not aid in the case of other head and neck cancers, so the reason is still under study. no matter the case, this link makes vaccination extremely crucial for prevention.

Other Key Risk Factors In addition to drinking and smoking, health experts identify the following head and neck cancer reasons.

Chewing Paan: A cultural habit in Southeast Asia, the chewing of paan is another easily falllible example. It consists of betel leaf, areca nut and tobacco. It damages the mouth’s delicate membranes and dramatically increases the odds of oral cancer.Occupational Exposure:

Manual work in construction, metalwork, ceramics and logging often involve exposure to dangerous dust or chemicals such as wood dust and asbestos. Increased exposure also increases risk of cancer in the nasal cavities and throat.

Radiation Therapy History:

People who have been treated for thyroid issues and underwent radiation to the neck and head area may develop salivary gland cancer several years later, although it is expected to be a very small increase.

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV):

EBV can play a role in the development of nasopharyngeal and salivary gland cancers. If you suffer from severe EBV infections and develop symptoms such as ongoing nasal blockage or the pseudo bulge in the neck region, then visit the doctor.

Family Background and Genetics:

Chinese, or those who have their origins in South East Asia, are said to be more proned to nasopharyngeal cancer because of their environment and genes.

Genetic Disorders:

Some conditions like Fanconi anemia can elevate the cancer risk among younger people. It is best to monitor their health regularly to detect signs early.