Tobacco
Tobacco use in all forms, especially cigarette smoking, is the number one risk factor for oral cancer. Ask about the use of tobacco products, and Advise all tobacco users to discontinue their use of all forms of tobacco. Refer tobacco users to the California Smokers’ Helpline, 1-800-NO-BUTTS, or the California Chewers’ Helpline, 1-800-844-CHEW. CDHA’s Smoking Cessation Initiative

Alcohol
Most persons with oral and pharyngeal cancer drink alcohol, and all forms of alcohol have been associated with oral cancer. Consumption of alcohol and a poor diet may affect oral cancer risk. Heavy drinkers are usually heavy users of tobacco products. When tobacco use and heavy use of alcohol are combined, risk is significantly increased. About Alcohol and Tobacco

Exposure to UV radiation
Sunlight helps to produce cancer along the vermilion border of the lip. Lip balm with sunscreen should be promoted as an effective way to protect the lip from the damaging effects of ultraviolet light. UV Sunscreen Protector

Diet low in fruits and vegetables
Increased consumption of fruits and/or vegetables has been associated with decreased risk of oral cancer. A healthy eating plan that incorporates a high level of fruits and vegetables has been reported as a protective factor and can be a rich source of vitamins, and other chemo-preventative elements, including antioxidants. CDHA’s Healthy Eating and Physical Activity For A Lifetime

• A sore or lesion in the mouth that does not heal within two weeks
• A lump or thickening in the cheek
• A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth
• A sore throat or a feeling that something is caught in the throat
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
• Numbness of the tongue or other area of the mouth
• Swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable

Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Examination
Oral Cancer Photo Gallery
Download the ‘Detecting Oral Cancer’ Poster (129 k pdf)