April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Oral cancer is a largely preventable disease that occurs when the cells in your mouth grow abnormally and cause either benign or malignant tumors. In 2017, approximately 4700 Canadians received a diagnosis of oral cancer.

That’s nearly 13 new cases of oral cancer per day! April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and there is no better time to talk about the signs and symptoms or oral cancer, and preventative steps you can take to keep your mouth healthy.

Oral Cancer Quick Facts:

1. Men are more likely than women to develop oral cancers.
2. People who are heavy users of tobacco and alcohol are more likely to develop oral cancer.
3. While tobacco and alcohol use are risk factors, even non-smokers can develop oral cancer. The human papillomavirus 16 (HPV 16) is related to the increased development of oral cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancer.
4. Oral cancer has a mortality rate that surpasses breast and colon cancer mortality rates. This is due in large part to a lack of routine dental visits and early detection.
5. Early detection of oral cancer can significantly increase survival rates — up to 90%.

Read More Here