Can Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer Be Prevented?
Most oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers can be prevented by avoiding risk factors whenever possible. Tobacco and alcohol are the most important oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer risk factors. The best way to avoid these cancers is to never start smoking or using smokeless tobacco. Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages, if you drink at all. Quitting tobacco and alcohol significantly lowers your risk of developing these cancers, even after many years of abuse. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is an important and very avoidable risk factor for cancer of the lips, as well as for skin cancers. If possible, avoid being outdoors during the middle of the day, when the sun’s ultraviolet rays are strongest. Minimize exposure to ultraviolet rays by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using sunscreen. Avoiding sources of oral irritation (such as dentures that do not fit properly) may also decrease your risk for oral cancer. Vitamin deficiencies have been related to oral cavity and oropharynge
