Mouth Cancer Action Month
Mouth Cancer Action Month is held in November every year and is supported by the Mouth Cancer Foundation and the Oral Health Foundation.
Around 77% UK adults have now heard of mouth cancer. However, awareness on the signs, symptoms and risk factors is poor, with awareness of the major signs and symptoms for mouth cancer as low as 20%.
With the latest figures showing that 10,825 people in the UK were diagnosed with mouth cancer last year it is important that everyone is aware of the symptoms and takes action when needed.
The ten-year survival rate for those with mouth cancer is between 18% and 57%, depending on where the cancer strikes and how early it is diagnosed.
Mouth Cancer Foundation offer online support groups where you can chat and connect with other patients and carers: Mouth Cancer Support Groups | Connect, Share & Heal Together
What are the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer?
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An ulcer or white or red patch anywhere in the mouth that does not heal within 3 weeks.
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A lump or swelling anywhere in the mouth, jaw or neck that persists for more than 3 weeks.
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Difficulty swallowing, chewing or moving the jaw or tongue.
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Numbness of tongue or other area of the mouth.
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A feeling that something is caught in the throat.
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A chronic sore throat or hoarseness that persists more than 6 weeks.
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Unexplained loosening of teeth.
The chances of the signs and symptoms above being due to cancer are low but we all know our own bodies’ best so if you have any concerns, speak to a doctor.
What are the risk factors of mouth cancer?
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Tobacco use is the main cause of mouth cancer.
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Drinking alcohol to excess can increase risks four fold.
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Drinking and smoking together can make mouth cancer up to 30 times more likely to develop.
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Poor diet and social deprivation is linked to a third of all cancer cases.
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The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), transmitted through oral sex, could overtake tobacco and alcohol as the main risk factor within the next decade.
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Exposure to the sun is a cause of skin cancer, which can affect the lips and face.
A healthy lifestyle will reduce your risk of mouth and other cancers however, up to 25% of mouth cancer cases have no associated significant risk factors.
Mouth Cancer Self - Check Guide - Mouth Cancer Foundation
The Mouth Cancer Foundation is a charity dedicated to raising awareness and support for those suffering from or at risk of mouth cancer, throat cancer and other head and neck cancers, as well as providing assistance and information on living with mouth cancer for families, friends and carers and training to professionals.
Find support services information from the Oral Health Foundation
Find the Patients’ Guide, written by patients and experts with head and neck cancer at: Mouth Cancer Foundation's Patients Handbook
