Exploring the association between prior cancer history and risk of head and neck cancer: insights from a multi-centre retrospective case-control study.

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the association between a history of previous cancers and the subsequent risk of developing head and neck cancer.

Method: A retrospective case-control design was employed, analysing 561 patient records from two National Health Service hospitals, with 273 patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer and 288 patients serving as controls.

Results: Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between prior cancer history, particularly squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and increased risk of developing head and neck cancer (p < 0.05). Subtype analysis highlighted specific head and neck cancers, such as oropharyngeal and laryngeal cancers, as particularly associated with a history of SCC.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that previous cancer diagnoses, especially SCC, may predispose individuals to head and neck cancer, challenging the traditional focus on tobacco, alcohol and human papillomavirus as primary risk factors. These results underscore the need for incorporating prior cancer history into risk assessment protocols and surveillance strategies to improve early detection and patient outcomes.