Oral Cancer Screening
Every hour of every day, one person dies from oral cancer in the United States. It is expected that about 42,000 American will be newly diagnosed with oral cancer this year. As with most cancers, early detection is the key to improving a patient’s chances for survival. If found early, oral cancers have an 80-90% survival rate.
Like breast cancer, self-examination can play an important role in early detection. Contact our office if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- A sore or lesion in the mouth that does not heal within two weeks
- A lump or thickening in the cheek
- A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil or lining of the mouth
- A sore throat or a feeling hat something is caught in the throat
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
- Numbness of the tongue or other area of the mouth
- Swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
Risk Factors
- Any form of tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol use – 30+ drinks per week
- Prolonged, repeated sun exposure – may increase rick of lip cancer
Prevention Tips
- A diet high in fruits & vegetables
- Protect your lips from sun exposure
- Self examination & awareness
- Regular dental exams
For more information on this important subject ask us anytime or visit OralCancer.org.
