Smoking and alcohol: Knowledge of the risks of oral cancer in the high-school population of Siena [Fumo e alcol: conoscenza dei rischi oncologici del cavo orale nella popolazione giovanile senese]

Objectives: We investigated students in the city of Siena to assess their knowledge of pathogenetic factors for cancer of the oral cavity, in particular alcohol consumption and smoking. The results will be used to develop a campaign aimed at reducing the main risk factors. Materials and methods: Using an anonymous questionnaire developed by our staff, we examined a sample of 1341 students in their last two years of high school. Results and conclusions: Analysis of the responses showed that 5 students (on 1.341) believe that smoking does not cause tumors; 1.308 students believe that it causes lung cancer, but only 21 believe that it can be responsible for cancers of the mouth. Even less was known about the role of alcohol as a risk factor for tumor formation. Indeed, only 59% of the students identified it as such. This study demonstrates that campaigns are needed to ensure that young people are more aware of the risks associated with the use of tobacco and alcohol, in particular their association with carcinoma of the oral cavity. © 2011 Elsevier Srl. Tutti i dirtti riservati.