Project 170844

Previous studies have shown that certain types of cancer begin as lesions appearing in different parts of the body. This study aims to investigate these lesions in the mouth and throat to determine which factors lead to the development of cancers in these areas. For this purpose we are going to conduct an international study involving subjects from Canada, USA, Brazil and South Africa. The present application is to obtain funding for the Canadian component, for a small "pilot" study. Eventually, this initial study will lead to a larger one in which we will follow a group of people who have these early lesions to monitor the development of disease. We are using sophisticated genetic techniques, as well as an interview to identify those at risk of developing cancer in the mouth and throat. The results of this study will help to clarify if there is a specific group of people who are more at risk to develop the disease. Identifying those at highest risk will allow us to design an effective health program to prevent development of mouth and throat cancers at an early stage.

international pilot cohort study using genetic techniques and biomarkers to study natural history of oropharyngeal cancer precursors