Not all cases of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer can be prevented, but the risk of developing these cancers can be greatly reduced by avoiding certain risk factors. The most effective way is to avoid known risk factors such as smoking and alcohol use.
Tobacco use is the most important cause of cancers in these areas. Avoiding exposure to tobacco (by not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke) lowers the risk of these cancers. Heavy alcohol use greatly increases the cancer-causing effect of tobacco smoke, so it is especially important to avoid the combination of drinking and smoking.
Plenty of workplace ventilation and the use of industrial respirators when working with cancer-causing chemicals are important preventive measures.
Poor nutrition and vitamin deficiencies have been linked to laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers. Eating a balanced, healthy diet may help lower your risk of these cancers (and many others).
The American Cancer Society recommends eating a variety of healthful foods, with an emphasis on plant sources. This includes eating at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day, as well as choosing whole grain foods from plant sources such as breads, cereals, grain products, rice, pasta, or beans. Eating fewer red meats and processed meats (such as hot dogs, sausage, and lunch meat) may also help lower your risk of cancer.
Doctors are now studying whether certain drugs or vitamins might help prevent these cancers, especially in people who are at high risk. So far, none have been successful enough to be recommended.
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