India, Aug. 18 -- Whenever people consider lip cancer, the first thought that comes to mind is usually related to the use of tobacco. Although smoking or smokeless tobacco can increase the chance of developing lip cancer, it does not mean that all cases of lip cancer are connected with tobacco. There are several other factors that can contribute to the development of the disease. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Kartik Krishnan, consultant head and neck oncosurgery, head and neck, Cancer Institute of India (HNCII), explains who may be at risk and why.

According to Dr Kartik, the most important risk factor is exposure to sunlight on a regular basis. The UV rays can cause damage to the cells of the lips over a period of time. Usually,...