Oral Cancer Awareness Month: Know The Facts

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In: Health and Fitness

Did you know that April is oral cancer awareness month?

I didn’t.

Oral Cancer Awareness Month

But I am glad to learn there is a month devoted to bringing awareness to oral cancer. I know cancer isn’t something most people want to talk about, it’s scary I know but is so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. It’s also better to be armed with facts and know everything you can regarding cancer.

Disclosure of product for BBD awareness month

I was shocked to hear that in 2018, that more than 51,000 people will contract oral cancer and it is estimated that more than 10,000 will die as a result, according to the American Cancer Society.

speak out

In celebration of Oral Cancer Awareness Month (April), Great Expressions Dental Centers is speaking out against oral cancer. I was asked if I would help speak out against oral cancer by sharing these facts with you…

Oral Cancer Fast Facts:

  1. Oral cancer comprises 85 percent of all head and neck cancers
  2. At least 75 percent of those diagnosed with oral cancer have been tobacco users
  3. Any sore in your mouth not healed within 14 days, should be looked at by a professional as it could be oral cancer
  4. Close to 50,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year
  5. Oral cancer will cause nearly 10,000 deaths this year
  6. Oral cancer kills roughly one person per hour, 24 hours a day
  7. Examine your mouth monthly for sores and symptoms
  8. Mouth cancer is twice as common in men than women
  9. Drinking alcohol to excess is linked to a third of all oral cancer cases
  10. The human papillomavirus is a leading cause of oral cancer
  11. There are more deaths from oral cancer than there are from road traffic accidents
  12. The five-year survival rate of oral cancer is 50 percent
  13. There is no way to prevent oral cancer, but you can take measures to lower your risk

GEDC will be giving all patients in April complimentary oral ID screenings, a two-minute exam that aids in catching oral cancer at early stages. You may want to check with your dentist and see if they are offering a free screening… it doesn’t hurt to ask.

I hope you will take the time this month to celebrate Oral Cancer Awareness month and speak out against oral cancer!