Warning signs of head and neck cancers depend on the location of the cancer.

Sometimes there are no warning signs.

That's why men and women over 40 may wish to get an annual cancer-related health checkup, especially if they use tobacco or alcohol.

Having any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks warrants a visit to a physician:

• A sore on the lip or in the mouth that does not heal
• A lump on the lip or in the mouth or throat
• A white (leukoplakia) or red patch on the gums, tongue or lining of the mouth
• Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in the mouth
• A sore throat that does not go away or a feeling that something is caught in the throat
• Difficulty or pain with chewing or swallowing
• Swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
• A change in the voice or hoarseness
• Pain in the ear
• Slurred speech
• Loose teeth
• Unintended weight loss
• Involvement of skin and face