Happy National Cancer Awareness Month from your friends at the Dental Care Center! We hope you’ll join us in the fight to end this devastating cancer and choose to have you and your family screened at one of our offices this month. Together we can raise awareness and encourage friends and family to get tested as well.

Oral Cancer

Oral Cancer includes any and all cancers of the mouth such as the tongue, the cheeks, and lips as well as the throat, sinuses, and other parts within the head and throat. Cancer often appears as a growth within the mouth, is caused by a mutation and growth in cells that can often then spread into other parts of the body.

By the Numbers

• Approximately 45,750 people will be newly diagnosed in 2015
• Of the 45,750 people diagnosed only about half will survive the next 5 years
• 1 person dies from oral cancer every hour of every day
• 115 people are newly diagnosed each day
• IF DETECTED EARLY, a person’s survival rate increases to 80-90%

Who is at Risk?

Oral Cancer is twice as common in men as in women. In addition, those who chew or smoke tobacco, drink alcohol excessively, or are exposed to sunlight for long periods of time are more likely to develop Oral Cancer. While the average age for diagnosis is 62, this cancer can affect all ages. In addition, scientists have recently connected poor diet habits such as those without consistent fruit and vegetable intake to be at higher risk for developing this cancer. While it is certainly important to consider these risks, it’s also important to note that one in four of those diagnosed with Oral Cancer did not fall into any of the above risk factors.

The Power of Prevention

“Historically the death rate associated with this cancer is particularly high not because it is hard to discover or diagnose, but due to the cancer being routinely discovered late in its development.” – Oral Cancer Foundation

Early detection can save! By choosing to come in for a routine checkup and an annual screening, one of our dental professionals can inspect your mouth thoroughly for any precancerous growths or overall changes to the inside of your mouth. Schedule your screening today – prevention saves!

(Sources: Oral Cancer Foundation, preventcancer.org)