MORE THAN 7,500 PEOPLE in the UK are diagnosed with mouth cancer, that’s 18 people every day! It is one of the few cancer variations on the rise – cases have increased by almost 50 percent over the last decade.
Mouth Cancer is on the Increase
Mouth cancer claims more lives than cervical and testicular cancer combined. Early detection is so important as it transforms the five year survival rate from 50 per cent up to 90 per cent. Oral health checks and visual examinations are the best way to identify suspicious lesions, so make sure you visit your dentist regularly as they will examine and screen you at every check up.
Ninety percent of cases of mouth cancer are linked to lifestyle and other risk factors. Smoking is the biggest avoidable risk factor, linked to an estimated 65 per cent of cases. Other risk factors include alcohol intake, poor diet (diets low in fruit and vegetables), and infections with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
Organised by the Oral Health Foundation, Mouth Cancer Action Month is aiming to reduce the amount of lives lost to mouth cancer by ensuring we are all aware of the symptoms and causes of the disease.
Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter OBE added: “We are thankful for the support of PMA Dental Care. Mouth Cancer Action Month relies on the support of the dental industry and with their support we will save lives.”
“Mouth cancer is one of the UK’s fastest increasing cancers, with cases up by almost 40 per cent in the last decade alone. Public awareness remains vital to combatting the disease and through us all being ‘mouthaware’ and spotting mouth cancer early enough, we are giving everyone the best possible chance to be successfully treated and have a good quality of life.”
“I would advise everybody in the local area to take PMA Dental Care up on this opportunity. Survival rates for those with mouth cancer have not improved in the last 20 years and examination initiatives like this can make a real difference.”
What to Look Out For
As a patient you can look out for mouth ulcers which do not heal within three weeks, red and white patches in the mouth, and unusual lumps or swellings. If you notice any of these, please make an appointment you’re your dentist as soon as possible.
If In Doubt, Check It Out
To book your free mouth cancer check as part of your check-up contact PMA Dental Care Gravesend on 01474 365671.
To find out more information about mouth cancer and Mouth Cancer Action Month, please visit www.mouthcancer.org
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health care professionals with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
