Preventing laryngeal cancer

It's thought that most laryngeal cancers can be prevented by adopting ahealthy lifestyle.

Avoidingtobacco products, cutting down on how much alcohol you drink andhaving a healthy diet are particularly important in reducing your chances of developing the condition.

Avoiding tobacco products

Using tobacco products increases your chances of developing several different types of cancer, including laryngeal cancer.

Tobacco comes in many forms, including:

  • cigarettes
  • pipe tobacco
  • cigars
  • cigarillos
  • snuff (powdered tobaccosnorted through the nose)
  • chewing tobacco

If you smoke or use other tobacco products, stopping will have both short- and long-term health benefits, including significantly reducing your risk of developing laryngeal cancer.

If you decide to stop smoking, your GP can refer you to anNHSstop smoking service,which can help you give up. You can also call the NHSSmoking Helpline on0300 123 1044specially trained helpline staff can offer free expert advice and support.

If you want to stopsmoking, but don't want to be referred to a stop smoking service, your GP should be able to prescribe medical treatment to help with any withdrawal symptoms you may have.

You may need additional treatment, which could include counselling, group work or medication.

This type of diet is sometimes known as a "Mediterranean diet".

Eating plenty of fruitand vegetables each day may help to reduce your chances of developing many types of cancer, including laryngeal cancer.

Read aboutfood and diet and healthy eating for more information and advice.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016