In 1979 the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health
Examination identified cancers of the oral cavity as a potentially
preventable cause of major morbidity and mortality. At the time,
early detection was considered possible but the quality of
evidence supporting the effectiveness of preventive strategies
and the effectiveness of treatments for oral cancers was limited
(C Recommendation). Review of the evidence from 1980 to
1993 has not changed this recommendation. However, smoking
cessation counselling is highlighted as a means of preventing oral
cancer and the recommendation to provide smoking cessation
counselling is consistent with that made in Chapter 43 which
deals more generally with the prevention of tobacco-caused
disease.