Risk Factors for Developing Laryngeal Cancer in Adult Population at the Hospital Español in Mexico City

Abstract

Laryngeal cancer is the most frequent head and neck cancer. Considerable geographic differences exist in its incidence by gender. In Spain, there is male predominance (>90%). Numerous authors have documented exposure to tobacco and/or alcohol as the main risk factors for laryngeal cancer. Gastroesophageal reflux, genetics, occupational factors and also human papilloma virus are also cited. The present study involved 43 patients diagnosed with laryngeal cancer and 130 healthy control subjects. The goal was to establish the frequency affecting both sexes and to identify the risk factors of those born in Spain but living in Mexico. Odds ratios (OR) for each risk factor were analyzed using univariate analysis. A considerable predominance of laryngeal cancer was found in males (90.6%). Tobacco (OR=6.56) and alcohol consumption (OR=3.04) are significant risk factors with a multiplier effect. Gastroesophageal reflux does not show any significant OR. Occupational exposure had a significant OR=37.28. The main advantage of this type of studies is the ability to design strategies to modify the risk factors. Male predominance and risk factors were no different from other findings reported in Spain, except for the considerable risk relating to occupational exposure.