Oral Cancer Awareness
April is Oral Cancer Awareness month, focused on highlighting and raising awareness about the fact that early detection of oral cancer can increase long-term survival and decrease morbidity. In 2023, we will observe the 24th Annual Oral Cancer Awareness month in order to continue the effort to raise awareness of oral cancer and the value of oral cancer screenings, as these oral cancer screenings provide the opportunity for early detection.
While you may not be aware of the impact of oral cancer, here are some statistics that may startle you about it’s prevalence and severity:
This year, an estimated 54,600 new cases of oral cancer will be diagnosed
Of those diagnosed, approximately 43% will not survive longer than 5 years
Every hour, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, someone dies of oral or oropharyngeal cancer
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Oral cancer is, in fact, the most common form of head and neck cancer (source). Unfortunately, oral cancer can appear like other common problems such as sores, ulcers, or colored patches. The difference however is that oral cancer symptoms do not subside or heal within a normal amount of time (approximately 1 to 2 weeks for normal sores or conditions).
How do you detect oral cancer?
The best method for detecting oral cancer is to have regular oral cancer screenings at your routine dental visit. You may also perform monthly self-examinations to identify any visible changes in your mouth that may indicate a concern to be shared with and evaluated by your dentist.
As a part of Oral Cancer Awareness month, the Oral Cancer Foundation, along with many national dental associations, are encouraging people to regularly check for symptoms and signs of oral cancer through the Check Your Mouth™ initiative. This initiative provides information on how to self-screen and what symptoms may be concerning.
Who is primarily at risk of oral cancer?
Oral cancer can be developed without associated risk factors. However, certain factors, habits and activities increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including:
Smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes
Using tobacco products of any kind, including chewing tobacco, dip, snuff, hooka or shush (water pipes)
Regular, excessive consumption of alcohol
Excessive exposure to the sun (without proper sun protection or sunscreen)
Those with HPV
Those with a family history of oral cancer
Men are also more likely to be diagnosed with oral cancer than women. Additionally, people over the age of 45 are at greater risk of developing oral cancer. (source)
If you or your loved one identifies with any of these risk factors for oral cancer, please prioritize your routine dental appointments so that your dentist can detect and discuss any concerns with you. If you have not had a dental examination in at least 6 months, then we strongly recommend you schedule a visit with your dentist or at WoodSprings Dentistry as soon as possible.
Are you looking for a dentist near you in The Woodlands, TX or Spring, TX? Dentists, Dr. Samantha and James Tejada, provide modern, personalized dental care at WoodSprings Dentistry, conveniently located near The Woodlands in Spring, TX, on Gosling Rd. Request an appointment online or call our office today to schedule your next dental visit.