While we don’t know the exact cause of head and neck cancers, we have identified factors that can increase your risk. If you avoid these factors, you can significantly lower your risk:
Limit smoking and drinking. Tobacco and alcohol are among the most important risk factors for these cancers. Not starting to smoke is the best way to limit the risk of getting these cancers. Limit how much alcohol you drink, or don’t drink at all.
Avoid human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The risk of infection of the mouth and throat is increased in those who have oral sex and multiple sex partners.
Limit exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. An important and avoidable risk factor for cancer of the lips, as well as for skin cancer.
Eat a healthy diet.
Wear properly fitted dentures.
Treat pre-cancerous growths. Areas of leukoplakia or erythroplakia in the mouth sometimes progress to cancer. Doctors often remove these areas, especially if a biopsy shows they contain areas of abnormal growth when looked at under a microscope.