November is Mouth Cancer Action month! This is a charity campaign organised by the Oral Health Foundation. This campaign takes place every November to raise awareness of mouth cancer and shares the importance of being aware of what is going on in your mouth.
There are a few factors to consider regarding mouth cancer:
- Smoking – this increases your risk of mouth cancer by up to ten times and more than 60% of mouth cancers are linked to smoking. There is also evidence that second- hand smoke also increases a person’s risk of mouth cancer.
- Alcohol – drinking an excessive amount of alcohol increases your risk of mouth cancer – around a 30% of mouth cancers are linked to drinking alcohol.
- HPV (human papillomavirus) – HPV is the major cause of cervical cancer and affects the skin that lines the moist areas of the body. Research suggests that this condition could soon rival smoking and alcohol as one of the main causes of mouth cancer. HPV vaccines are available for both girls and boys and are given to children at the age of 12-13 before sexual activity starts.
- Diet – a significant portion of mouth cancers are also thought to be linked to an unhealthy diet and lack of minerals and vitamins. Studies have found that Omega 3, which is found in foods such as eggs and fish, and foods high in fibre, such as nuts, seeds, whole wheat pasta and brown rice, can help lower your risk.
- Cancer history – if a person has suffered with cancer previously, they are at higher risk of developing it again. There are also cancers which can make a person more likely to get mouth cancer – oesophagus cancer, squamous cell skin cancer, cervical cancer, penile cancer and anal cancer.
- Family history, genetics and immune system – there is a slight increase of mouth cancer if you have a close relative diagnosed with the disease. The likelihood of mouth cancer is higher for those who carry certain inherit genes for those with genetic conditions affecting the bone marrow, skin or fingernails. Research also shows those undergoing treatment for HIV or AIDS, and those taking medication after organ transplants are more at risk of mouth cancer due to the medication weakening the immune system.
Some signs and symptoms of Mouth Cancer are:
- A persistent sore in the tongue
- Tongue pain
- Sore throat
- Changes in voice
- Difficulty in swallowing and chewing
- Difficulty in moving the jaw or tongue
- A lump formation inside the mouth
- Red or white patch on the tongue and gums
If you are concerned or feel you have any of these signs or symptoms please don’t hesitate to contact one of our practices where our friendly and accommodating reception staff will be happy to help; 01482 440084
If you would like to donate to the Mouth Cancer Action please see the link below:
Donate – Make a donation to Mouth Cancer Action | Oral Health Foundation (dentalhealth.org)