Tobacco, Alcohol and Cancerization of the Oral Mucosa (TACO)

This study (TACO) is investigating how tobacco and alcohol use affect the tissues surrounding oral cavity cancers. It collects tissue samples to understand the biological changes caused by these risk factors in the mouth lining near cancer sites. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You have been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma (a type of cancer) of the oral cavity, confirmed by biopsy - You have not yet received any systemic cancer treatment (no radiation or chemotherapy) - You have health insurance or medical coverage **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You are at high risk of bleeding or are on blood thinners - You have another active cancer or an HPV-positive tumor - You use cannabis - You are pregnant or breastfeeding - You had surgery for this cancer more than 6 months ago - You have lesions on the cheek opposite the cancer area that prevent a safe tissue sample from being taken Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.