April is Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of these types of cancers, which can develop in the oral cavity, throat, and neck. According to the American Cancer Society, about 54,540 new cases of oral or oropharyngeal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2023, and approximately 11,580 people will die from these cancers.
Early detection is key to successful treatment, and free screenings occur all over the US and abroad throughout the year. In April, the Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week® promotes a high volume of free screenings worldwide, plus educational talks and other awareness programs.
We want to encourage our readers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral, head, and neck cancer. These can include:
- A sore in your mouth that doesn’t heal or that increases in size.
- Persistent pain in your mouth.
- Lumps or white or red patches inside your mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing or moving your tongue or jaw.
- Changes in your voice or speech.
We recommend that you see your dentist or doctor if you have any of these symptoms. In addition to regular screenings, healthy habits such as avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of developing oral, head, and neck cancer.
The American Cancer Society and other organizations are working hard to promote awareness of oral, head, and neck cancer and support research for early detection and treatment. By spreading awareness and taking preventative measures, we can work towards reducing the incidence and impact of these types of cancer.
Remember, early detection can save lives. Take advantage of free screenings and speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Let’s work together to raise awareness and fight oral, head, and neck cancer.
The response provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice.