According to new research published by the Oral Health Foundation, the incidence of oral cancer has grown exponentially, with 8,864 people in the UK diagnosed with the disease in 2021, an increase of 36 percent on the previous decade.
With 3,034 deaths recorded within a year of contracting the disease, this represents a 40 percent increase in deaths over the past 10 years and a 20 percent increase over the past five years. This is what prompts us to focus again on the importance of knowing symptoms and early examination.
Dr Nigel Carter, Chief Executive Officer of the Oral Health Foundation, said: “Traditional causes such as smoking and excessive drinking are being quickly detected by emerging risk factors such as HPV. The stigma around oral cancer has changed. So much so that it could really affect anyone.”
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“We have seen firsthand the impact that oral cancer can have on a person’s life, changing the way they speak, making eating and drinking more difficult, and often changing a person’s physical appearance as well. We therefore urge everyone to become more conscious of their oral health than to By recognizing the early warning signs of oral cancer and being aware of the common causes. Most importantly, if you notice anything unusual please do not delay in seeking help from a doctor or dentist.”
The NHS states that oral cancer occurs when a tumor develops on the surface of the tongue, inside the cheeks, roof of the mouth, lips or gums.
Less commonly, tumors can also develop on the glands that produce saliva, the tonsils and the pharynx, which is the part of your throat that connects your mouth to your windpipe.
Oral cancer signs and symptoms may include:
A painful ulcer that does not heal even after several weeks.
Tumor growth in the mouth or neck.
Loose teeth or cavities that do not heal after extraction.
Numbness of the lips or tongue.
White or red patches that form on the lining of the mouth or tongue.
Speech changes, such as sudden development of a lisp.
If you experience any of the above symptoms and they don’t go away after three weeks, it’s advised to get them checked out by a general practitioner or dentist, especially if you smoke or drink alcohol regularly, both of which are thought to increase your risk of developing the condition.
And as Dr. Carter alluded to above, infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) is another common cause.
Oral cancer is treated in three ways, either by removing the cancerous cells through surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy, and these methods can be tried together to ensure that the cancer does not return and to preserve oral functions.
As preventive measures, the NHS recommends reducing tobacco and alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that includes fresh vegetables, especially tomatoes, as well as citrus fruits, olive oil and fish. It is also advised to have regular dental check-ups to ensure that any potential symptoms are detected early.