Prevention

The chances of developing head and neck cancer can be reduced by taking some of the following measures:

• Avoid tobacco use. Most cases of oral cancer are caused by tobacco use, including smokeless tobacco. Avoiding all tobacco products reduces your risk.

• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.

• Maintain proper dental hygiene. Chronic inflammation from tooth decay or irritation from dentures is a risk for mouth cancer. Brush your teeth and use dental floss to remove food particles from between your teeth. If you wear dentures, clean them every day. See a dentist regularly for professional cleaning and to assure that dentures, crowns or fillings are not causing any irritation.

• Limit exposure to the sun. Wear hats and sunscreen for your lips to avoid exposing your lips/mouth to the ultraviolet light of the sun. Stay indoors during the middle of the day.

• Eat a balanced diet. Eat some foods rich in vitamin A. But do not overdo it or take a supplement without your doctor's approval. A healthy, balanced diet is good for overall health and may help prevent other cancers.

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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.