Medical References
Diseases & Conditions
Women's Health
Mental Health
Men's Health
Healthy Choice News
Site Map Links
Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Leukoplakia
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the condition?
A person should avoid the things that cause irritation, such as smoking or excessive alcohol intake. This can prevent many cases of leukoplakia.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
The primary concern with leukoplakia is that it may represent a cancer, which occurs in about 5% of cases. Leukoplakia can also turn into cancer at a later time, which may occur in up to 1 out of every 5 cases.
What are the risks to others?
Leukoplakia generally poses no risks to others. In rare cases, leukoplakia may indicate an underlying infection that may be contagious.