Smoking

Smoking increases your risk of developing mouth cancer by up to ten times compared with non-smokers. This includes smoking cigarettes, pipes and cigars.

Around two in every three (more than 60%) mouth cancers are linked to smoking.

There is also evidence that second-hand smoke at home or in the workplace may increase a person’s risk of mouth cancer.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol to excess increases your risk of mouth cancer. Alcohol is linked to just under a third (30%) of all mouth cancers.

Smoking and drinking together trebles a person's mouth cancer risk.

UK guidelines recommend a maximum of 14 units of alcohol a week for both men and women.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

HPV is a major cause of vaginal, anal, and oral cancer.

It is spread through unprotected sex, so a good way to protect yourself against it is to use barrier contraception (like condoms and dental dams).

If you have a child aged 12-13 they will be offered a HPV vaccine. This vaccine is another effective way to prevent HPV. Learn more

Smokeless tobacco products

Smokeless tobacco is any tobacco product that is placed in the mouth or nose and not burned.

The types of smokeless tobacco products most used contain a mix of ingredients including slaked lime, areca nut and spices, flavourings and sweeteners.

That includes gutka, khaini, paan (betel quid), shammah and maras powder, snus, snuff, and many others. Learn more. 

Diet

It is recommended that you eat a healthy, balanced diet including lots of fruit and vegetables each day.

Increasing evidence also suggests that Omega 3, found in foods such as eggs and fish, can help lower your risk.

Foods high in fibre such as nuts, seeds, whole-wheat pasta and brown rice, are also said to do the same.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation

Too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known cause of skin cancer. This can occur either from natural sunlight or sunbeds.

Skin cancer can develop on the lips – as this area is often exposed to UV radiation.

Protect yourself by wearing a lip balm with a high SPF.

Previous history of cancer

Those who have had mouth cancer are at greater risk of developing it again. 

There are also other cancers which can mean a person is more likely to get mouth cancer. These include:

• Oesophagus cancer (of the food pipe) 

• Squamous cell skin cancer 

• Cervical cancer 

• Penile cancer 

• Anal cancer 

Family history of mouth cancer

Although we do not know why, there is a slight increase in risk of mouth cancer if you have a close relative diagnosed with the disease.

Genetic conditions, HIV/AIDS, and organ transplants

Mouth cancer can also be more likely for those who carry certain inherited genes. Links have been found for those with genetic conditions affecting the bone marrow, skin or fingernails. These are rare conditions and 

Research also shows those undergoing treatment for HIV or AIDS, and those taking medication after organ transplants are slightly more at risk of mouth cancer. This is because some of the medications used in these cases can weaken the immune system.