Every November, Mouth Cancer Awareness Month highlights a crucial health issue: oral cancer. Oral cancer can affect various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and throat. This month raises awareness about the risks, symptoms, and the importance of early detection, while encouraging regular dental check-ups. Let’s explore the key information about mouth cancer, its symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures.
What Is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer, also called oral cancer, includes cancers in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It’s a type of head and neck cancer, and early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Oral cancers can develop on the lips, gums, tongue, and the roof or floor of the mouth. If not detected early, mouth cancer can spread to other parts of the body, making treatment more difficult and survival rates lower.
Symptoms to Watch For
Mouth cancer symptoms can often be mistaken for less serious issues. Paying attention to changes in your mouth is key. Some common signs include:
1. A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
2. Lumps or thick patches in the mouth or lips
3. Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or mouth lining
4. Unexplained bleeding or numbness
5. Difficulty chewing or swallowing
6. Persistent ear pain
7. Changes in voice or a sore throat
These symptoms don’t always indicate cancer, but if they persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to consult a dentist or doctor.
Risk Factors for Mouth Cancer
Several factors can increase the risk of developing mouth cancer. Tobacco use is one of the biggest contributors, whether smoking or using smokeless tobacco. Nearly 90% of people with oral cancer use tobacco in some form.
Alcohol is another major risk factor. People who smoke and drink heavily are up to 30 times more likely to develop mouth cancer. Other risks include prolonged sun exposure (which can cause lip cancer), human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, poor oral hygiene, and a diet low in fruits and vegetables.
Early Detection and Why It Matters
Early detection is critical for treating mouth cancer effectively. Unfortunately, many cases aren’t caught until the disease has progressed, lowering survival rates. The five-year survival rate for mouth cancer is around 60%, but this rises to 80-90% with early detection.
Regular dental check-ups are essential because dentists can spot early warning signs during routine exams. These screenings are quick and painless but can save lives by catching cancer in its early stages.
Preventive Measures
Preventing mouth cancer starts with lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are two of the most effective steps to lower your risk. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing is also important. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides antioxidants and vitamins that can help protect against cancer.
For those frequently exposed to the sun, wearing lip balm with SPF and limiting direct exposure can reduce the risk of lip cancer. Vaccination against HPV can also reduce the risk of HPV-related oral cancers.
Raising Awareness
Mouth Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to spread knowledge about oral cancer and encourage regular screenings. By educating the public about the symptoms and promoting early detection, more cases can be caught early, improving treatment outcomes. Our office plays a key role in this effort by offering screenings and sharing educational resources with patients.
Ultimately, the goal of Mouth Cancer Awareness Month is to inform and empower individuals to take charge of their oral health. By recognizing the signs, reducing risk factors, and scheduling routine dental visits, we can help reduce the impact of mouth cancer and save lives.