Oral Cancer Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Save Lives

April marks Oral Cancer Awareness Month - a vital time to highlight the importance of early detection and education around a condition that can often go unnoticed until it’s advanced.

What is Oral Cancer?

• Oral cancer, also called mouth cancer, can affect any part of the mouth, including lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, as well as throat. Like many cancers, early detection dramatically improves the chances of successful treatment.

• Anyone can get mouth cancer, but the risk increases with age. Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 66 and 70.

• How serious it is depends on the type of mouth cancer, how big it is, if it has spread and your general health.

Why Awareness is So Important

Oral cancer can be difficult to spot in its early stages, as symptoms are often painless and easy to overlook. That’s why awareness, and regular dental visits, are so important.

At our practice, we include an oral cancer screening as part of every routine check-up. It’s quick, non-invasive, and could make all the difference.

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

Being aware of changes in your mouth can help with early detection. Watch for:

• Mouth ulcers that don’t heal within 2–3 weeks

• Red or white patches in the mouth

• Unusual lumps, swelling, or thickening in your mouth

• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking

• Persistent hoarseness or sore throat

• Numbness in the lips or mouth

• A lump in your neck or throat

• Losing weight without trying
  

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get checked promptly.

Source: www.healthline.com Medical illustration by Jason Hoffman

Note: These symptoms are very common and can be caused by other conditions.

Having the symptoms does not definitely mean you have mouth cancer, but it's important to get checked by a GP or dentist.

If your symptoms are caused by cancer, finding it early may mean it's easier to treat.

Understanding the Risk Factors

It is not always clear what causes mouth cancer. However, some factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer:

• Smoking or tobacco use

• High alcohol consumption

• HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

• You have leukoplakia

• Excessive sun exposure (especially for lips)

• Poor diet
  

Reducing these risks where possible can make a significant difference.

Prevention and Protection

You cannot always prevent mouth cancer, but there are things you can do to lower your chance of getting it.

Simple steps can help protect your oral health:

• Try to quit smoking or chewing tobacco

• Drink alcohol in moderation (less than 14 units a week)

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables

• Use SPF lip protection outdoors

• Excercise regularly

• Attend regular dental check-ups

How Your Dentist Can Help

Dentists are often the first to detect early signs of oral cancer. During your check-up, we carefully examine your mouth, head, and neck for anything unusual.

These screenings take just a few minutes, but they could save your life.

Final Message for the Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Oral Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritise your health.

If you have any concerns or it’s been a while since your last check-up, don’t delay. Book an appointment today. We are here to help.

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