Throat cancer is a disease in which cancer cells grow in an
abnormal way in the throat. Cancer occurs when cells in the
body—in this case throat cells—divide without control or order.
Normally, cells divide in a regulated manner. If cells keep
dividing uncontrollably when new cells are not needed, a mass of
tissue forms, called a growth or tumor. The term cancer refers
to malignant tumors, which can invade nearby tissues and spread
to other parts of the body. A benign tumor usually does not
invade or spread. Factors that can increase your chance of
developing throat cancer include: - Age: 40 or older - Sex: male
- Smoking or use of any tobacco products - Excessive alcohol
consumption - Family history - Vitamin A deficiency - Diet low
in fruits and vegetables - Suppressed immune system Infections
caused by certain viruses such as: - Epstein-Barr virus - Human
papillomavirus - Radiation exposure - Excess consumption of
cured meats or fish - Marijuana use Exposure to certain
materials such as in: - Nickel refini