A supermarket has partnered with the NHS in an effort to raise awareness about mouth cancer.

Asda has partnered with the NHS to print cancer awareness messaging on its toothpaste and mouthwash in Bolton.

From this month, NHS advice will feature on these products sold in over 500 stores throughout the UK and online.

The aim is to educate customers on the importance of early detection of cancer symptoms.

Alison Jones, director of early diagnosis at Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance, said: "This is a great opportunity for the NHS to work with a national supermarket brand to put health messaging on oral hygiene products, encouraging thousands more people to be aware of the signs of mouth cancer, so they can spot new or unexplained changes and contact their GP or dental practice for checks if concerned."

Asda's vice president for commercial strategy, Operations & Own Brand, Sam Dickson, said: "We sell over 2 million of these everyday items each year, so making this small change to our packaging means we can make a big difference in encouraging shoppers to be more aware and to highlight what they should do if they find any new or unexplained changes."

The initiative coincided with World Head and Neck Cancer Day and comes as the NHS heightens its campaign urging young people to consent to the HPV vaccine, which can lessen the risks of several cancers, including mouth cancer.

Cancer survivor Steve Overend, 66, from Cheshire, said: "I think what the NHS and Asda is doing is excellent.

"Anything that can be done to help someone recognise what they’ve got before it needs difficult treatment is worth it."

President of the Mouth Cancer Foundation and oral maxillofacial surgeon, Mahesh Kumar added: "Early detection is key in the fight against mouth cancers.

"It is incredibly important to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms among the general public."