Dentist shares warning signs of mouth cancer to encourage early diagnosis
A dentist has shared common signs of mouth cancer to encourage more people to get checked in the hope of improving survival rates.
Early diagnosis can increase survival chances by up to 90% but studies suggest that most people with mouth cancer in the UK are diagnosed at an advanced stage. This is largely due to the fact that public awareness of oral cancer remains relatively low. While most people know which signs and symptoms to look out for with other types of cancer, such as breast, lung and bowel cancer, many are unaware of the warning signs of mouth cancer.
Data from the Oral Health Foundation shows that more than 8,800 new cases of mouth cancer were diagnosed in 2021. The number of cases has risen by over 33% in the last ten years and by over 90% since 2000. The number of deaths has increased by nearly 20% in the last five years.
Dr Sundeep Patel, a cosmetic dentist and clinical lead at Smile Straight, explained that the rise in cases is linked to changes in our lifestyles, including smoking, drinking more alcohol and not getting enough fruit and vegetables. Alcohol is a risk factor in around a third of cases. Smoking and drinking combined increase the risk of developing mouth cancer by over 30 times.
During November, which is Mouth Cancer Action Month, Dr Patel is urging people to carry out basic examinations at home and make sure they get symptoms checked out. Early warning signs of oral cancer include difficulty swallowing or feeling like there’s something stuck in the throat, hoarseness, changes in the voice and swelling in the throat and neck. Patients are also urged to seek advice if they have slow-healing mouth ulcers or sores, numbness in the mouth, ear pain, headaches and loose teeth that are not decayed or caused by gum disease.
Seeking help early can make the difference between successful and unsuccessful treatment. Anyone who is worried about symptoms of mouth cancer should see their GP or their dentist. Many practices are offering free screening during November for Mouth Cancer Action Month.
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