Busted: 6 Myths About Head and Neck Cancers

When you think of cancer, head and neck cancers — like throat or tongue cancer — may not be the first to come to mind. Head and neck cancers are, indeed, rarer than some other kinds of cancer — and that may be why there are a lot of misconceptions, like what causes head and neck cancers and who gets them. For instance, it's not only older people who get head and neck cancer, and no, you won't necessarily get cancer if you miss a flossing session. (Thankfully.)Here's a closer look at the facts and fallacies surrounding head and neck cancer. 1. "Head and neck cancer is only one kind of cancer.""Any part of your head or neck can get cancer, like your tonsils, sinuses or tongue," explained dentist Jessica Pharar, DMD.Head and neck cancers include all cancers that start in the mouth and nasal passages and extend through the throat. This includes cancers of the:NoseSinuses TongueOral mucosa (like the gums and lining of the cheeks)LipSalivary glandsTonsilsThroat (known as the pharynx) 3. "Only smokers and drinkers get head and neck cancer."Heavy alcohol and tobacco use places you at a higher risk of developing head and neck cancer because chemicals in tobacco-containing products can damag...