Oral Cancer Awareness Month, observed every April, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of early detection and prevention. Oral cancer affects thousands of people each year, but with greater awareness and knowledge, you can reduce your own risk. If you want to know more about the effects of oral cancer, continue reading. You’ll learn how to recognize its signs and take steps to protect your health.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a category of diseases that include mouth, tongue, lip, and throat cancers. It can affect anyone, but factors like tobacco use and overexposure to the sun increase the likelihood of developing it. Cancer causes cells to rapidly mutate, developing deadly tumors or infections that can spread through the body and become fatal.
Recognizing the Signs
Early detection of oral cancer can ultimately save your life. This is why your dentist will often perform a screening at your regular dental checkup. However, knowing the symptoms can help prompt you to seek out medical attention. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Sores or Ulcers: Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal.
- Lumps or Thickening: Unusual lumps, bumps, or thickened areas in the mouth, neck, or throat.
- Red or White Patches: Patches of red or white on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
- Pain or Numbness: Unexplained pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Trouble chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue.
- Ear Pain: Persistent ear pain that doesn’t relate to other conditions.
- Changes in Voice: Hoarseness or a change in voice that doesn’t go away.
Reducing the Risk
Preventing oral cancer involves making healthy lifestyle choices and staying vigilant about changes in your oral health. Here are steps you can take:
- Avoid Tobacco: Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco products.
- Limit Alcohol: Reduce the amount of alcohol you drink.
- Protect Your Lips: Use lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sun damage.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for routine checkups.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- HPV Vaccine: Consider the HPV vaccine to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers.
Oral Cancer Awareness Month is a crucial time to educate yourself and others about the risks and signs of oral cancer. By recognizing the symptoms and making healthy choices, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this disease. Regular dental checkups and being mindful of changes in your oral health are key components in early detection and prevention. So, stay informed, stay vigilant, and help spread awareness this April and beyond.
About the Practice
Dr. Philip Batson and Dr. Elizabeth “Liz” Abe are committed to helping their patients live happier, healthier lives. That’s why they encourage the observance of Oral Cancer Awareness Month and strive to educate their patients. Whatever you need to make your smile feel better, they have you covered. Call (573) 875-7071 to schedule an oral cancer screening at Columbia Healthy Smiles or visit the website to see a full menu of other services they offer.