1 in 60 men and 1 in 141 women are at risk of developing oral cavity and oral cancer in their lifetime. Oral cancer is a tumor that develops in areas of the mouth in the surface of the tongue, lips, gums, salivary glands, tonsils, and the pharynx. The month of April is dedicated to oral cancer awareness. This month is dedicated to raising awareness in hopes to provide early detection and significantly improve oral cancer outcomes.
Oral Cancer Awareness Month aims to inform the public on:
- What symptoms to look out for.
- Who is more likely to get oral cancer in their lifetime.
- Why it is important to have early detection and treatment.
- Recommendations for oral cancer screenings.
Oral Cancer has several risk factors:
- Those who use tobacco whether by smoking, having long-term exposure, or using smokeless tobacco products are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer.
- Those who consume alcohol and drink heavily are at a higher risk of getting oral cancer.
- Those who have the human papillomavirus (HPV) are at higher risk of getting oral cancer.
- Those who are older in age are at a higher risk of getting oral cancer. Most oral cancers happen after age 40.
- Those who are exposed to ultraviolet light (UV rays) boost the risk of getting oral cancer.
Oral Cancer signs and symptoms:
- A patch of red or white color located on your tongue, gums, or the inside of your cheek.
- A sore in your mouth or on your lips that stays for a long period of time.
- A lump or mass in your mouth or on your lips that you can feel.
- Difficulty chewing and swelling of the jaw.
- Pain located in the mouth area.
- Bleeding in your mouth for no explained reason.
Receiving regular dental checkups can help find and treat oral cancer early on. During the month of April, for oral cancer awareness month. Call or Text us today to schedule your screening or regular dental appointment!
