In many cases the exact cause of cancer is not known. However, the primary cause of mouth and throat cancer is smoking. People who drink excess alcohol are also at risk and when mixed with tobacco use, their chance of developing cancer is much greater.
Another factor of cancers of the mouth, especially in the lips is prolonged exposure to sunlight or sun-beds, this is also the major cause of skin cancer. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, try to wear a wide brimmed hat and apply a high factor sun-cream to your face and lips.
Regular inhalation of coal dust, asbestos and diesel fumes may also increase the risk of developing throat cancer.
Risk factors for Increased Risk of Mouth/Throat Cancer
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
The Epstein-Barr virus is also known to be a risk factor in the development of cancer of the throat. The Epstein-Barr virus is the virus that causes mononucleosis. However, infection with the virus alone is not sufficient to cause cancer, since this cancer is quite rare and mononucleosis is quite common.
(History of) chewing tobacco use
Chewing tobacco is known to cause cancer of the mouth.
History of mouth/throat cancer
Significant/severe diesel exhaust exposure
Regular inhalation of coal dust, asbestos and diesel fumes may also increase the risk of developing throat cancer.
Increased Risk of Mouth/Throat Cancer suggests the following may be present
Recommendations for Increased Risk of Mouth/Throat Cancer
Key
| Weak or unproven link |
| Strong or generally accepted link |
| Proven definite or direct link |
| Highly recommended |
Glossary
Cancer
Refers to the various types of malignant neoplasms that contain cells growing out of control and invading adjacent tissues, which may metastasize to distant tissues.
Virus
Any of a vast group of minute structures composed of a protein coat and a core of DNA and/or RNA that reproduces in the cells of the infected host. Capable of infecting all animals and plants, causing devastating disease in immunocompromised individuals. Viruses are not affected by antibiotics, and are completely dependent upon the cells of the infected host for the ability to reproduce.
Mononucleosis
An acute, infectious disease caused by the herpes virus, Epstein-Barr virus, with fever and inflamed swelling of the lymph nodes around the neck, under the arms, and in the groin.