Depends on the location of the tongue - but it's NOT proven yet to be causally linked if the cancer is on the mobile tongue. There was a recent study published with these outcomes. However, if it is base of the tongue - that is more widely accepted as a possible cause. Like your brother - I was diagnosed at 29 - non-smoker and non-drinker. No cause identified as of yet. My doctors think it is just bad luck or a genetic predisposition or possibly a weaker immune system.

Here's the link to the article: http://diss.kib.ki.se/2005/91-7140-289-6/thesis.pdf

I believe Gail Mac might have originally posted about this.

Amy

SCC Right Lateral Tongue T2N0M0 Dx 01/12/06, Surgery 01/25/06. Partial Glossectomy, Bilateral Neck Dissection - 22 lymph nodes - all clear. No radiation.