What are the risk factors for head and neck cancers?
A. There are many risk factors for head and neck cancers. Age and lifestyle factors, such as alcohol and tobacco use, are the biggest. But risk factors vary, depending on the type of cancer. Select any of the links below to read more about the risk factors for: § Laryngeal cancer § Lip and oral cancer § Oropharyngeal cancer It’s important to note that having any or all of the known risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop a head and neck cancer. On the other hand, having no risk factors does not mean that a person cannot develop a head and neck cancer, either. Smokers and drinkers who don’t quit these lifestyle behaviors during and after treatment for a primary head and neck cancer are at a higher risk of developing another cancer.
