Alcohol Oral cancer and cancers of the larynx, throat, esophagus, and liver occur more frequently among heavy drinkers of alcohol especially when accompanied by smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco. Smokeless Tobacco Use of chewing tobacco or snuff increases risk of cancer of the mouth, larynx, throat, and esophagus and is a highly addictive habit. Estrogen Estrogen treatment to control menopausal symptoms can increase risk of endometrial cancer. However, using progesterone with the estrogen helps to minimize this risk. Consultation with a physician will help each woman to assess personal risks and benefits.
Continued research is needed in the area of estrogen use and breast cancer.
Risk of lung cancer from asbestos is greatly increased when combined with cigarette smoking. Ionizing Radiation Excessive exposure to ionizing radiation can increase cancer risk. Most medical and dental x-rays are adjusted to deliver the lowest dose possible without sacrificing image quality. Excessive radon exposure in homes may increase risk of lung cancer, especially in cigarette smokers. If levels are found to be too high, remedial actions should be taken.