1.  What are the risk factors?

• heavy smoking
• chewing tobacco or using snuff
• heavy alcohol consumption
• long term outdoor (sun) exposure
• aging

2.  Where is it most commonly found?

• pharynx (throat)
• lip and cheek
• tongue
• salivary gland
• roof and floor of mouth

Look for sores, lumps red or red and white patches in your mouth that do not heal within 2 weeks.

3.  Visit your dentist or family doctor for:

• mouth ulcers that do not heal
• sores or wart-like patches on lip
• persistent sore throat
• sores under dentures
• lump in the tongue, lip, or neck
• difficulty in chewing, swallowing or speaking
• numbness in any area of the mouth

4.  What can you do to prevent oral cancer?

• check mouth, lips, tongue and cheeks regularly
• have regular dental check-ups
• don't smoke
• don't use chewing tobacco or snuff
• don't habitually consume heavy amounts of alcohol
• wear sun protection on lips when spending time outdoors
• eat a healthy diet including fresh fruit and leafy green vegetables (those with vitamins A, C, and E)

5.  Facts

• Affects approximately 3,000 Canadians yearly
• One of the easiest cancers to detect
• Affects men four times more than women
• Occurs most often in adults over 40
• Early signs can be seen and felt
• Pain is rarely present
• Biopsy is the only way to diagnose oral cancer
• Early detection and immediate treatment can result in cure

For more information call the Dental Program at the Health Unit at (705) 743-1000. 
TTY: (705) 743-4700.