April is designated as Oral Cancer Awareness Month. It’s a time to raise awareness of this deadly disease that affects thousands of people every year. Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can occur in the tongue, lips, gums, cheeks, roof, floor of the mouth, or tonsils. According to the American Cancer Society, about 54,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and more than 10,000 will die from it.
Risk factors for oral cancer
There are several risk factors for oral cancer, including tobacco and alcohol use, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, sun exposure, and a weakened immune system. Men are also at a higher risk of developing oral cancer than women. It’s important to be aware of these risk factors and take steps to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer.
Symptoms of oral cancer
Symptoms of oral cancer may include a sore or ulcer in the mouth or throat that doesn’t heal, persistent pain or numbness, difficulty swallowing or speaking, a lump or thickening in the cheek, a red or white patch on the gums, tongue, or tonsils, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact us soon as possible.
The importance of early detection
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of oral cancer. Regular dental checkups are an essential part of oral cancer screening so we can detect early signs of oral cancer during routine checkups. If a suspicious area is found, we may recommend a biopsy or imaging tests.
By taking steps to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer and being aware of its symptoms, you can protect yourself and those around you. If you have any concerns or don’t have a dental checkup scheduled in our office, please call us at 312.943.6444 or request an appointment here.
Ramy Bahu, DDS