It is characterized by memory loss and reduced ability to think and organize. At this time, researchers tend to believe that genetic predisposition is the key to the onset of Alzheimer's, but this new research finds that smoking is also a risk factor. When you accumulate enough damage, the tobacco fairy taps you on the shoulder and says it's your time to go. In 1998, over 30,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral and throat cancer. Approximately 8,000 deaths will result, with about 5,200 men and 2,800 woman succumbing to these cancers.
Blacks have higher oral cancer incidence and mortality rates than whites.
Thus, oral cancer is a very preventable disease, if one simply doesn't smoke. Persons who have oral cancer often develop multiple primary lesions and second primary tumors. If oral cancer is detected early, it may still be localized and thereby more susceptible to successful treatment. Thus, early diagnosis of oral cancer is crucial to improving survival rates and reducing the risk of death. Former Beatle Battles Throat Cancer from Smoking In June, George Harrison, the former Beatle, divulged he had been fighting throat cancer for almost a year.