Most people are familiar with common types of cancer like breast, lung, and colon cancer, but many are unaware of the dangers posed by oral cancer. Oral cancer can develop in various parts of the mouth, including the gums, roof of the mouth, lining of the lips or cheeks, minor salivary glands, and the floor of the mouth. Unfortunately, the signs of oral cancer are often mistaken for minor oral injuries, leading to a lack of awareness about its symptoms and severity.
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Oral cancer is deadly
Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. The prevalence of oral cancer varies by geographical location, with Papua New Guinea and Pakistan having the highest rates worldwide. In Australia, approximately 48,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Knowing the risks and taking steps to prevent and detect oral cancer early is crucial.
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It affects people of all ages
While the risk of developing oral cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people between the ages of 50 and 70, there has been a concerning rise in the number of young people being diagnosed with the disease in recent years. Men are more likely to be affected than women across all races and ages, possibly due to higher rates of risky behaviours like smoking and drinking.
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Alcohol and tobacco use are significant risks
Smoking and drinking alcohol are major risk factors for developing oral cancer. This includes both traditional smoking and vaping, as well as smokeless tobacco products. Frequent use of these substances can cause DNA damage and the build-up of harmful substances in the mouth and respiratory or digestive tract. Additionally, the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is often transmitted through sexual activity, is a particular risk factor for oral cancer, especially among young people. Chronic exposure to solar radiation can also increase the risk of developing lip cancer.
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Your odds are better if found early
Like most cancers, oral cancer progresses through five stages, ranging from stage zero to stage four. When detected at stages zero to two, the survival rate is 80% or higher. However, if the cancer is not detected until stages three or four, the survival rate drops to below 50%. This highlights the importance of early detection in improving outcomes for people with oral cancer.
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An oral examination can detect early signs of cancer
Pre-cancerous lesions and early signs of oral cancer can be difficult to detect, as many people have non-cancerous sores in their mouths. This is why it’s important to have regular oral screenings performed by a trained dental professional. During an oral screening, your dentist will perform various tests to determine the cause of any lesions or abnormalities in your mouth. One such test is a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of cells from a suspicious area for further testing. This can help your dentist determine whether you have oral cancer and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Conclusion
Regular dental check-ups that include oral cancer screenings are crucial for detecting oral cancer in its earliest stages when treatment is most effective. If you’re looking for a trusted dental provider to help you maintain good oral health and screen for potential problems like oral cancer, consider Carrum Downs Dental Group. Their experienced team of dental professionals is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile for life. Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule your next dental check-up and oral cancer screening today.