Aetiology

• Most cancers (90%) of the oral cavity are squamous cell carcinomas
• Patients are usually 50+ however there is increasing prevalence in younger people

Risk factors

• Smoking is the main avoidable risk factor - linked to 65% of cases in the UK
• Alcohol (acetaldehyde)
• Diet (low in Vit A, C and iron)
• HPV
• UV light
• Candida

Clinical features

Symptoms

• Ulcer
• Numb feeling e.g. lips, face
• Unexplained pain in mouth or neck
• Change in voice
• Dysphagia

Signs

• Lesion - red, white or red and white

Investigations