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Men are diagnosed with oral cancer more than twice as often as women. Because some oral pre-cancers and cancers can be found early, and one in four people diagnosed do not exhibit the known high-risk factors associated with the disease, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for screenings.
AT RISK
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People who chew or smoke tobacco or who drink alcohol to excess |
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People who are exposed to sunlight for long periods of time |
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People who do not eat many fruits or vegetables |
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People with human papillomavirus (HPV) |
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People with suppressed immune systems |
RISK REDUCTION AND EARLY DETECTION
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Do not use tobacco in any form. |
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Avoid excessive alcohol use, and do not combine alcohol with tobacco |
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Avoid being outdoors during the middle of the day when the sunlight is strongest |
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Use lip balm containing sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to protect against sun damage to the lips. |
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Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. |
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Have an annual oral cancer screening by your dentist or health care professional. |
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Conduct a self-examination once a month by looking in a mirror.
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SYMPTOMS
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A white or red lesion on the lips, gum, tongue or mouth lining |
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A lump or mass which can be felt inside the mouth or neck |
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Pain or difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking |
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Hoarseness lasting a long time |
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In any area of the mouth, numbness or pain that doesn’t go away |
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Swelling of the jaw or loosening of the teeth |
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Bleeding in the mouth |
TREATMENT
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Surgery and radiation therapy are standard forms of treatment. |
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Chemotherapy may also be used for some patients with later stages of the disease. |
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