The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 1.7 million new cancer cases diagnosed and 609,640 cancer deaths in the United States in 2018. Those figures are inclusive of all cancers. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 51,550 Americans will be newly diagnosed with oral cancer this year. The numbers are devastating, but we can turn these dismal predictions into something positive through raising awareness. February is recognized as National Cancer Prevention Month with the objective to decrease the number of cancer diagnoses through public education of how to prevent and detect cancer in its earliest stages.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is any type of cancer affecting areas of the lips, mouth, neck, salivary glands, throat, tongue, and tonsils. Fortunately, when detected early on, oral cancer can be effectively treated, and the survival rates are often favorable.
Who is at risk for oral cancer?
The most commons risk factors for oral cancer are tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and HPV. Smoking cigarettes is known to cause a variety of cancers and health problems, primarily contributed to tobacco, but what about a “safer alternative” like electronic cigarettes? Also known as e-cigarettes, e-cigs, personal vaporizer pens, vape pens, etc., these electronic devices are tobacco-free and have become increasingly popular among the younger generation. They mimic the real deal by heating a liquid to create aerosol (vapor), a concoction of chemicals, flavoring, and nicotine.
Dr. Moon-Shong Tang, an NYU professor at the Department of Environmental Medicine and Pathology recently conducted a study indicating a link between e-cigarette smoking (“vaping”) and increased risk of heart disease and cancer. The research concluded that e-cigarettes can cause DNA damage and may reduce repair activity in the lungs, bladder and heart.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of oral cancer can vary for each individual. Promptly visit your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms, especially if they do not improve.
- Coughing - chronic coughing, coughing up blood, lingering sore throat or hoarseness
- Lesions - bleeding or injured tissue that fails to heal properly
- Lumps - hardened bump, growth or thickening of tissue, swollen lymph nodes in neck
- Pain - jaw pain, painful chewing, painful swallowing
- Sores - persistent pink, red, or white patches that bleed easily and don't heal
The Oral Cancer Foundation launched the “Check Your Mouth” campaign last month. This campaign is a public service announcement to encourage people to conduct self-exams of their mouths every month in between routine dental visits.
Detection, Prevention & Treatment
Knowledge is power, so knowing the red flags of oral cancer is your first line of defense. Oral cancer exams conducted by your dentist can help catch cancer in the beginning stages. Your dentist might even use a laser to look for abnormal changes and lesions that are invisible to the naked eye. In the unfortunate event of an oral cancer diagnosis, a variety of treatment options are available such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
If you would like to come in for an oral cancer exam, or have any questions or concerns, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.