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Head and Neck Cancer: Reducing Your Risk

Eliminate tobacco use

The two most important risk factors for developing head and neck cancer are using tobacco (smoking or chewing) and heavy use of alcohol. Not only is tobacco use a major risk factor for developing an initial tumor, it also increases the risk for secondary tumors.

All forms of tobacco increase the risk of developing head and neck cancer. It doesn't matter whether it's a cigarette, pipe, cigar or chewing tobacco. The single most important thing you can do to lower your risk for head and neck cancer is to stop smoking. If you stop smoking today, it will be 15 to 20 years before your risk level declines to that of the general population. But the risk drops most rapidly during the first few years, so it's important to stop, no matter how long you've been a smoker.

Recent research suggests that exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer, may be associated with an increased risk for certain types of head and neck cancer.

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This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician.

This information is part of the U-M Health System. The information presented is not a tool for self diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. © 2008 The Regents of the University of Michigan

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HPV linked to better survival in tonsil, tongue cancer, a 2008 U-M study finds Read the press release