Keywords: head-neck cancer, lifestyle, prevention

The results of this Dutch cohort study confirm that lifestyle plays an important role in the development of head-neck cancer (oral cancer, throat cancer and laryngeal cancer). Alcohol consumption and smoking are the primary risk factors for developing these types of cancers. A low intake of fruits, vegetables, vitamin C (from foods) and low selenium values (as measured in toenails) are also associated with an increased risk of head-neck cancer. The use of vitamin C supplements and the consumption of foods rich in vitamin E and carotenoids do not appear to minimise these risks. The role played by body weight remains unclear.

Our results confirm that a healthy lifestyle can be a promising strategy in preventing head-neck cancer.