Oral Cancer

Topic Overview

Oral cancer may develop in any part of the mouth. Risk factors for oral cancer include smoking or spit (chewing) tobacco and excessive use of alcohol.

It is important to check regularly for symptoms of oral cancer. See the When to Call a Doctor section of this topic for a list of symptoms.

For additional information on oral cancer, see the following topics:

• Oral Cavity Cancer – Health Professional Information [NCI PDQ]
• Oral Cavity Cancer – Patient Information [NCI PDQ]

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Author:	Bets Davis, MFA	Last Updated: March 5, 2009
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
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