What causes throat cancer

The occurrence of laryngeal cancer is related to genetics, environmental factors, physiological factors, trauma and other pathological diseases, and specific prevention and treatment measures need to be taken according to different causes.

1. Genetic factors

Genetics plays a role in the development of laryngeal cancer. If there is a family history of laryngeal cancer, the risk of developing the disease is relatively high. This is because certain gene mutations may cause abnormal cell proliferation, which can lead to cancer. If there is a family history of related diseases, it is recommended to undergo regular professional physical examinations and pay attention to a healthy lifestyle in daily life, such as staying away from tobacco, alcohol and highly polluted environments.

2. Environmental factors

Long-term exposure to air pollution, chemicals or harmful gases is an important external cause of throat cancer. For example, exposure to asbestos, dust or irritating gases in the manufacturing industry can cause chronic irritation to the respiratory tract. The harm of secondhand smoke to the throat cannot be ignored. To reduce the risk, you should try to avoid long-term exposure to these harmful environments and use appropriate protective equipment.

3. Physiological factors

Long-term bad living habits, such as smoking and alcoholism, can significantly increase the risk of laryngeal cancer. Harmful chemicals in tobacco and alcohol have a synergistic carcinogenic effect, which can cause damage and malignant transformation of laryngeal mucosal cells. Quitting smoking and controlling alcohol consumption are key to reducing the risk of laryngeal cancer. A diet lacking in vitamins A, C, and E may also increase the risk. It is recommended to eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

4. Trauma and chronic irritation

Long-term chronic inflammation or repeated injury of the throat, such as frequent overuse of the throat and acid reflux irritating the throat, may lead to cell changes and eventually induce laryngeal cancer. If you often experience symptoms such as throat discomfort, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible to find out the cause and avoid the development of the disease.

5. Other pathological diseases

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may also increase the risk of laryngeal cancer, especially high-risk subtypes transmitted through the mouth. Data show that the number of HPV-related laryngeal cancer cases is increasing year by year. One of the effective ways to prevent this risk is to get the HPV vaccine. Long-term untreated diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) will also increase the risk of laryngeal cancer. In response to this situation, the primary disease should be treated in time and the lifestyle should be improved.

In order to prevent throat cancer, it is recommended to start with genetic screening, reduce exposure to harmful environments, improve lifestyle habits, control chronic throat irritation and treat underlying diseases, supplemented by regular health checks, such as otolaryngology or imaging screening. If you experience symptoms such as long-term throat pain, hoarseness or difficulty swallowing, you should consult a professional doctor and undergo relevant examinations in a timely manner. Paying attention to healthy living and staying away from high-risk factors are the most effective measures to prevent throat cancer.