The role of the dental team in preventing and diagnosing cancer: 1. cancer in general.

Prevention and early detection are integral components of the Health Agenda and areas taking on increasing importance and emphasis. Members of the dental profession have an important role to play and, indeed, a duty to advise on the prevention of, not only oral diseases and notably oral cancer, but also on other potentially malignant conditions and their prevention. They are in a position to advise and help protect their patients, staff, colleagues, families and acquaintances. Apart from prevention, early detection and prompt referral for diagnosis offer the best hope to the patient with cancer, providing the best chance of a cure. The signs and symptoms of cancer often resemble less serious conditions and prompt referral to an appropriate specialist usually allows for the best management.