6. Asbestos Exposure – A Hidden Hazard for Throat Cancer
Exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals, is another lesser-known cause of throat cancer. While the use of asbestos has been banned in many countries due to its harmful effects, it was widely used in the past for insulation, fireproofing, and other industrial applications.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can get trapped in the lungs and remain there for a long time. Over the years, these fibers can accumulate and cause scarring and inflammation. This can affect breathing and lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and throat cancer.
The risk of developing throat cancer from asbestos exposure increases with the amount of and duration of exposure. Workers in industries that used or still use asbestos, such as construction, shipbuilding, and automotive repair, are particularly at risk.
While the use of asbestos has decreased dramatically in recent years, its past use means that many older buildings and products still contain this hazardous material. Proper safety measures should be taken when working with or around asbestos to reduce exposure and the associated risk of throat cancer. (6)
