Tobacco and alcohol use are the risk factors responsible for the greatest burden of head and neck cancers: a study from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

Abstract

Our investigation underscores that smoking and alcohol consumption are leading risk factors for cancers of the head and neck, although their effects vary depending on the specific type of cancer, the sex of the patient, age group, and regional demographics. While occupational exposure to carcinogenic substances does not appear to be a predominant factor, it remains an important consideration that should not be overlooked in the comprehensive assessment of risk for these malignancies.