Oral Cancer Awareness: Early Detection Saves Lives

April marks Oral Cancer Awareness Month, offering a chance to learn about the signs and symptoms, the importance of regular screenings, and ways to reduce your risk. Each year, approximately 50,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer, and nearly 10,000 die. That means about one person every hour loses their life to oral cancer. Survivors of oral cancer may experience facial disfigurement and difficulties with speaking and eating. Let’s explore how both patients and dental professionals can enhance their knowledge of oral cancer.

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Role of Dental Professionals

Dentists and dental hygienists may see patients more often than physicians, putting them in a critical position to detect head and neck cancers early. A screening during a routine visit can save lives.

Dental professionals can access continuing education on early diagnosis and prevention from professional organizations during April. Linked below are free courses available anytime, along with some additional resources:

Who Is at Risk?

Oral and throat cancers have multiple risk factors, some lifestyle-related, some environmental, and others linked to infectious diseases:

  • Lifestyle factors like smoking, vaping, use of smokeless tobacco and heavy alcohol consumption.
  • Environmental and physical risks include UV radiation from the sun or tanning, poor nutrition and oral hygiene, and chronic trauma to the mouth or jaw.
  • Infectious diseases such as Human papillomavirus (HPV) and other sexually transmitted infections are major contributors. HPV alone causes roughly 70% of throat cancers, especially in younger adults. Disruptions in HPV vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic have left some teens more vulnerable.
  • Other considerations: About 25% of oral cancer patients have no known risk factors. Healthcare disparities matter. Adults enrolled in Medicaid are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and face higher mortality.

Prevention and Early Detection

Healthy lifestyle choices can minimize your risk:

  • Avoid tobacco in all forms
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Use lip balm or sunscreen with SPF for lip protection
  • Maintain good oral hygiene habits
  • Eat a well-balanced diet
  • Get HPV vaccination

Awareness of signs and symptoms, in combination with self-screening and professional oral cancer screening, is essential for catching problems early.

 Watch for:

  • Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or changes in voice
  • A lump or sensation of something stuck in the throat
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Earache
  • Swelling, white or red patches on the tongue, cheeks, gums, or tonsils
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue/jaw
  • Mouth or lip sores that don’t heal within a couple weeks, bleeding, pain, or numbness
  • Loose teeth or dentures—denture wearers should continue routine screenings even if no adjustments are needed

While oral cancer can be deadly, it is preventable with awareness, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular screenings. Be sure to pay attention to changes in your mouth and throat and share concerns with your dental providers and primary care physician. Dental professionals are frontline detectors, so don’t skip your dental check-ups.