Oral Cancer
The UK NSC policy on Oral Cancer screening in adults
More Information
Oral cancer is cancer that develops inside the mouth, usually on the surface of the tongue, the lips or the gums. In rare cases, it can also develop in the salivary glands, or in the tonsils.
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Image © Clinical Skills Ltd and provided courtesy of Cancerbackup.
» Read more about cancer of the mouth on NHS Choices
» Read more about cancers of the head and neck on Cancerbackup
Policy Position
Screening should not be offered.
This policy was reviewed in Jun 2010 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2013/14, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
A series of workshops was held by small expert groups and a report presented to the UK NSC in March 2003. Oral cancer is increasing in young adults, but the natural history of the disease remains largely unknown. The experts recommended that:
- the epidemiology of the disease be investigated with long-term prospective studies
- opportunistic screening by all health professionals should be encouraged
- population awareness should be increased through other health education programmes.
Stakeholders
The Ben Walton Trust
The British Association for Cancer Research
The British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry
British Association of Surgical Oncology
British Dental Association
British Dental Health Association
Cancer Research UK
Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK)
Mouth Cancer Foundation
Royal College of Physicians
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Royal College of Surgeons
Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
