p53 accumulation was detected in 59% (22/37) tumours and was associated with reduced apoptosis compared to p53-negative tumours or mucosa (14.8 ± 15% p53 accumulation vs 26.3 ± 18% p53-negative; P < 0.05; vs 28.7 ± 17.9% mucosa; P < 0.05). The gene discussed is TP53; the disease is neoplasm.