A prominent Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) consultant at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr Kenneth Baidoo, has highlighted health risks associated with some lifestyles: smoking, alcoholism, and oral sex.

He explained that smoking shisha and tobacco, consuming alcohol excessively, and engaging in oral sex are significant contributors to the development of head and neck cancers.

Dr Baidoo emphasised the need for public awareness regarding these risk factors, as reported on Korle Bu Teaching Hospital’s official X page on August 12, 2025.

"Smoking shisha and tobacco, alcohol consumption, and engaging in oral sex are key risk factors linked to head and neck cancers – Dr Kenneth Baidoo, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Consultant, Korle Bu," the caption of the post stated.

According to Dr Baidoo, using shisha and tobacco exposes a person to harmful carcinogens, while excessive alcohol consumption can damage cells in the head and neck area.

Additionally, certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), often transmitted through oral sex, are associated with an increased risk of these cancers.

The medical expert urged the public to adopt preventive measures, which include avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol, practicing safe sex, and undergoing regular check-ups.

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, Dr Baidoo stressed, encouraging persons experiencing symptoms such as persistent mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, or changes in their voice to seek immediate medical attention.

NAD/VPO

Meanwhile, watch below the trailer for GhanaWeb’s upcoming documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures: