Exploring the risk of second primary malignancies in laryngeal cancer survivors: insights from the SEER database

Purpose We intended to investigate the risk for second primary malignancy (SPM) development in Laryngeal Cancer (LC) survivors. We conducted a population-based analysis of SPM risk using the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Methods Data of selected LC survivors from the SEER database between 2000 and 2020 were examined. Standardized Incidence ratios (SIRs) for SPM development were calculated, followed by detailed stratification according to anatomical site and different latency periods. Results A total of 8413 SPMs were observed in our extracted cohort. The collective standardized incidence of SPMs was 2.12 (95% CI 2.07–2.17) compared to the US population, with an absolute excess risk (AER) of 201.73 per 10,000 individuals. The highest SPM risks were observed in patients with young age at diagnosis, females, and American Indians/Alaska natives. Increased SPM risks were reported in patients receiving all modalities of treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Most SPMs were detected in solid organs such as the lungs and bronchus, oral cavity and pharynx, and prostate. The highest increased risks of developing SPMs were observed in Trachea, larynx, oral cavity and pharynx, lung and bronchus, and esophagus. Conclusions The risk of SPMs in LC survivors was significantly increased compared to the general US population. Accordingly, a more impactful cancer surveillance strategy for LC patients should be implemented.