Oral Cancer – Lowering risk
September 18th, 2015
Oral Cancer
Lowering your risk
Oral cancer is the 8th most common cancer worldwide and affects the lips, tongue and mouth. It is no longer a disease confined to heavy smokers and drinkers, and is something that should be examined for at all ages. In the early stages, oral cancer can go unnoticed. Unfortunately, most cases of this cancer are found in the late stage when treatment is extremely difficult and invasive. Oral cancer screening is one of the many reasons why a regular dental check-up is so important. At every check-up, your dentist will examine your entire mouth for early signs of oral cancer.
Visit mouthcancerawareness.ie for more information.
Early detection of oral cancer could save your life. Examine your mouth on a regular basis for changes that last more than two weeks. Things to look out for are non-healing ulcers, extremely dry patches, changes in colour or texture, unexplainable lumps, or difficultly swallowing. If you are concerned about any changes in your mouth, do not hesitate to visit your dentist. Your dentist may recommend that you have a small biopsy taken of the area concerned. This is a simple straightforward procedure.
How can I lower my risk?
- Visit your dentist at least once a year for a full check-up, even if you wear full dentures
- Lower your consumption of alcohol
- Try to quit smoking
- Wear sun factor on your face and lips EVERY time you will be outside for extended lengths of time (e.g. playing sports, farming, sailing, fishing etc)
- Eat a nutritious diet full of fruit and vegetables
- Protect yourself from viral infections such as human papilloma virus (HPV) which is spread via oral sex
