The Mouth Cancer Foundation is launching Bite Back at Mouth Cancer, a simple head and neck cancer check which can be carried out by anyone at home, at any time, ideally once per month.

There are easy to do self-check tests for a variety of other cancers but there is nothing similar for mouth, head or neck cancer. Bite Back at Mouth Cancer shows members of the public what to look for and how to seek help if they find something out of the ordinary. They will become familiar with the signs and symptoms to look out for and learn to act sooner.

GP and TV doctor Dr Dawn Harper is backing the initiative and has taken part in a video to clearly show how to carry out the examination. She said: 'It is recommended that the self-check is done once a month after teeth have been cleaned and by everyone over the age of 16 years. It takes less than two minutes. To carry out the mouth test all you need is a mirror, good light source and clean fingers. It is that simple. At each step you are inspecting and feeling for any lumps, red or white patches, changes in colour or texture, lingering ulcers or anything unusual.'

The Bite Back at Mouth Cancer self-examination has been devised by Mouth Cancer Foundation Ambassadors, Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Mahesh Kumar and Dentist Philip Lewis.

Philip Lewis said: 'Encourage patients to make a note of anything unusual. If they have recently had a cold, sore throat, ulcer or swollen glands, bitten or scolded themselves for example, tell them these should heal within three weeks. If they have any concerns encourage them to book an appointment.'

To view and download the self-check instuctions, leaflet and posters visit http://www.mouthcancerfoundation.org/get-involved/bite-back-mouth-cancer.