The nurse is reviewing risk factors for the development of oral cancer with a group of senior citizens at a community center. What will the nurse include in this instruction? Select all that apply

Question

1. Do not use tobacco.
2. Limit or refrain from alcohol use.
3. Ensure a daily intake of vitamin D.
4. Use a sunscreen when out of doors.
5. Have dental exams to check for infections.

Answer 1

1. Do not use tobacco.
2. Limit or refrain from alcohol use.
4. Use a sunscreen when out of doors.
5. Have dental exams to check for infections.

Explanation: 1. Smoking cigarettes, pipes, and cigars accounts for 90% of oral cancers. Cigar, pipe, and chewing tobacco users have the same risk as cigarette smokers.
2. The risks for oral cancer are great for people who chronically use alcohol.
3. Vitamin D intake is not identified as a way to reduce the onset of oral cancer.
4. Limiting sun exposure to the lips by wearing a brimmed hat and lip balm with sunscreen helps reduce the risk of oral cancer.
5. Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections of the mouth including the human papilloma virus (HPV16), a common sexually transmitted virus affecting 40 million Americans, have emerged as a serious biologic risk factor for oral cancer.