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Prevention

By Mayo Clinic staff

There's no proven way to prevent throat cancer from occurring. But in order to reduce your risk of throat cancer, you can:

  • Stop smoking or don't start smoking. If you smoke, quit. If you don't smoke, don't start. Quitting smoking can be very difficult, so get some help. Your doctor can discuss the benefits and risks of the many stop smoking strategies, such as medication, nicotine replacement products and counseling.
  • Drink alcohol only in moderation, if at all. For women and older adults, this means one drink a day. For men, moderate drinking means no more than two drinks a day.
  • Choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. The vitamins and antioxidants in fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk of throat cancer. Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables.
  • Use caution around chemicals. When working with chemicals, whether on the job or around your house, carefully follow the directions. Avoid breathing hazardous chemical fumes. Properly ventilate the room where you're working and wear a mask over your nose and mouth.

DS00349

July 12, 2008

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