Saunders Oncology Adult Health Practice Exam

Which statement about risk factors for laryngeal cancer indicates teaching was effective?

Alcohol consumption is not associated with this type of cancer.

Cigarette smoking does not contribute to the development of this type of cancer.

Exposure to airborne carcinogens can cause this type of cancer.

Exposure to airborne carcinogens is a recognized risk factor for laryngeal cancer because inhaled irritants can cause chronic inflammation and DNA damage to the laryngeal mucosa, increasing the likelihood of malignant transformation in the larynx. This reflects the role of occupational and environmental exposures in the development of this cancer.

In teaching terms, this option aligns with what is known about how the larynx can be affected by irritants in the air, such as chemical fumes or dusts encountered in certain jobs. By contrast, the other statements misstate known risk factors: tobacco and alcohol use are well-established risks for laryngeal cancer, overuse of the voice is not a proven independent risk factor, and spitting up blood is a symptom or sign of disease rather than a risk factor.

Overuse of the voice is not associated with this type of cancer unless it causes spitting up of blood.