A RECENT large-scale population-based study from Taiwan has revealed a significant association between allergic rhinitis (AR) and an elevated risk of developing head and neck cancers (HNC). HNC, which arises in the upper aerodigestive tract, is a major global health concern, accounting for nearly 900,000 new cases and over 400,000 deaths annually. While traditional risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol, and HPV infection are well-established, emerging evidence suggests chronic inflammation may also play a crucial role in cancer development.
AR, a common inflammatory condition affecting the nasal mucosa, was found to be significantly associated with HNC in this study. Using data from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database, researchers conducted a case-control analysis and found that individuals with a history of AR had a 55.9% higher risk of developing HNC compared to those without, even after adjusting for numerous confounders.
Interestingly, the link between AR and HNC varied by cancer site. Strong associations were observed with nasopharyngeal (OR: 2.933), sinonasal (OR: 3.100), and thyroid cancers (OR: 1.566), while no significant correlation was found with oral or oropharyngeal cancers. This site-specific variation may reflect differences in local immune responses and exposure to allergens.
The study suggests that chronic inflammation caused by AR could contribute to carcinogenesis through oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and promotion of tumour-friendly environments, such as increased angiogenesis. These mechanisms may explain the heightened risk for certain HNC subtypes, especially those anatomically closer to inflamed nasal tissues.
While these findings are compelling, the study’s retrospective design limits causal interpretation. The reliance on diagnostic codes and the lack of detailed AR data are further limitations. Nonetheless, this research highlights the potential of AR as a modifiable risk factor for HNC, warranting future prospective studies to explore causality and biological mechanisms. For now, increased vigilance and monitoring of patients with chronic AR could play a role in early cancer detection and prevention.
Reference
Hung S-H et al. Associations of head and neck cancer with prior allergic rhinitis. Cancers. 2025; 17(6):1000.
