It was announced on Monday that 65 year old screen star Michael Douglas has a tumor in his throat. He will undergo 8 weeks of chemotherapy and radiation treatments in an effort to remove the growth.
While it is not known whether the tumor is benign or cancerous, reports indicate that Mr. Douglas is hopeful and doctors optimistic that he will fully recover from his illness. Years of drinking and smoking are being pointed to as the probable culprit.
Smoking and Oral Cancer:
Approximately 90 percent of people diagnosed with oral cancer or pharyngeal cancer (including cancer of the mouth, tongue, lips, throat, parts for the nose, and larynx) are tobacco users.
Drinking and Oral Cancer:
Heavy, regular alcohol consumption is a risk factor for oral cancer. It's estimated that 75 to 80 percent of those with oral cancer drink alcohol frequently. Like smokers, people who drink a lot of alcohol on a regular basis are also six times more likely to get an oral cancer than nondrinkers.
Tobacco and Alcohol Combined:
The risk for oral cancer that each substance represents is compounded when they are used together.
Additionally, males are more at risk for developing oral cancer, especially men over 60 years of age.
Michael Douglas and his wife, Catherine Zeta Jones have two children, Dylan Michael and Carys Zeta. My heartfelt thoughts go out to their family during this difficult time.
Photo: Michael Douglas and wife, Catherine Zeta Jones
Frazer Harrison / Getty Images
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