Cancer of the Mouth and Throat (cont.)

Prevention

The best way to prevent head and neck cancer is to avoid the risk factors.

• If you use tobacco, quit. Do not substitute "smokeless" tobacco for smoking. Pipe and cigar smoking are not safer than cigarette smoking.
  
  
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Do not use both tobacco and alcohol.
  
  
• If you work outdoors or are otherwise frequently exposed to sunlight (ultraviolet radiation), protect yourself with clothing that blocks the sun. Apply sunscreen to your face (including a lip balm with sunscreen), and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  
  
• Avoid sources of oral irritation, such as ill-fitting dentures. If you wear dentures, remove and clean them every day. Have your dentist check their fit regularly.
  
  
• Eat a balanced diet to avoid vitamin and other nutritional deficiencies. Make sure you eat foods with plenty of vitamin A, including fruits, vegetables, and supplemented dairy products. Do not take very high doses of vitamin A supplements, which may actually be harmful.

Ask your dentist or primary care provider to check your oral cavity and pharynx regularly to look for precancerous lesions and other abnormalities. Report any symptoms such as persistent pain, hoarseness, bleeding, or difficulty swallowing.

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