Hypopharyngeal cancer risks and prevention
Hypopharyngeal cancer is rare, with only 2,000 to 4,000 cases reported each year nationwide. However, people with the following risk factors may have a higher chance of developing the disease.
Smoking and drinking alcohol can significantly increase the risk of developing hypopharyngeal cancer, especially if you do both. Older people who were assigned male at birth and have a history of tobacco and alcohol use are particularly at risk. Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce your chances of getting this type of cancer.
People with vitamin and mineral deficiencies are at increased risk for hypopharyngeal cancer. Nutrients like iron and vitamin C are important for maintaining healthy cell function and a strong immune system. Without these nutrients, the body becomes more vulnerable to cancerous cell growth, especially in the throat. Additionally, a diet low in fruits and vegetables deprives the body of antioxidants that help protect against cancer development.
People with difficulty swallowing may have a higher risk of developing hypopharyngeal cancer. The disease can also worsen due to difficulty swallowing or choking when food or liquid enters the airway (aspiration).
People with hypopharyngeal cancer will often be tested for HPV as a possible factor in developing the disease. However, there’s currently no strong link between HPV infection and this type of cancer, unlike the connection seen with oropharyngeal cancers.
People with Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS) often have trouble swallowing and may develop iron-deficiency anemia, a swollen tongue (glossitis), swollen lips (cheilosis), and thin membranes in the upper esophagus (esophageal webs). They also have a higher risk of developing throat cancers, including hypopharyngeal cancer.
Research suggests that people who were assigned male at birth are more likely to develop hypopharyngeal cancer than those assigned female at birth. This may be due to higher historical rates of smoking and drinking among people assigned male at birth.
GERD happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. It may increase the risk of cancer in the throat and lower part of the hypopharynx.
People with anemia often have blood issues from a young age. They also have a much higher risk of developing cancers in the throat, voice box, and the middle part of the throat (oropharynx).
People with certain genetic conditions, deficiencies, or syndromes may be at a higher risk for developing hypopharyngeal cancer. Examples include inherited conditions like Fanconi anemia and genetic disorders like dyskeratosis congenita.