Abstract
Background. Oral cancer continues to have a relatively low survival rate because most tumors are diagnosed at late stages. Nurse practitioners may be optimally positioned for oral cancer prevention and early detection. Methods. A statewide mail-based survey was conducted among 448 Florida nurse practitioners. Logistic regression was conducted to assess the independent relationships between nurse practitioners' attitudes and their practices in oral cancer prevention and early detection. Results. Nurse practitioners' oral cancer practice behaviors were significantly affected by their attitudes. Conclusions. Effective strategies should be implemented to enhance positive attitudes about oral cancer early detection among Florida nurse practitioners. J Cancer Educ. 2008; 23:57–62.