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April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, an essential time to recognize the dangers of oral cancer and the critical role of routine screenings in early detection. Oral cancer can affect areas such as the mouth, throat, tongue, or lips, and without early diagnosis, it can become life-threatening. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, around 54,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, with approximately 10,000 losing their lives to this disease.
What Causes Oral Cancer?
Multiple risk factors increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer, including:
- Tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infections
- Excessive sun exposure leading to lip cancer
- Family history of cancer
By understanding these risk factors, you can make informed decisions to help lower your risk.
How to Prevent Oral Cancer
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some effective steps you can take to reduce your risk of oral cancer:
- Avoid tobacco products: Smoking or chewing any form of tobacco significantly raises cancer risk.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking is a known risk factor for oral cancer.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing support oral health and reduce infection risks that may contribute to cancer.
- Use sun protection on your lips: Lip balm with SPF helps protect your lips from harmful UV rays.
- Get vaccinated for HPV: Since HPV is a known cause of oral cancer, vaccination can lower your risk.
- Maintain a balanced diet: Eating fruits and vegetables boosts your immune system, which supports overall health.
- Schedule regular dental checkups: Routine visits to Hardin Family Dental, including oral cancer screenings, are essential for early detection.
Oral Cancer Screenings at Hardin Family Dental
Routine screenings are vital for identifying cancer in its early stages, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes. The American Cancer Society recommends screenings every three years for individuals at average risk, starting at age 20. For those with higher risk factors, such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or a family history of cancer, more frequent screenings may be necessary.
At Hardin Family Dental, our skilled team conducts comprehensive oral cancer screenings, examining your mouth, throat, and surrounding areas for any unusual signs, such as red or white patches, sores, or lumps. If any suspicious area is found, a biopsy may be recommended to determine if it is cancerous.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Being aware of the early signs of oral cancer can make all the difference. Some common symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent sore throat lasting longer than two weeks
- Lumps or thickening in your cheek or throat
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or other mouth areas
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule a screening at Hardin Family Dental without delay.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Some people avoid cancer screenings due to fear or discomfort, but oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and could save your life. Early detection allows Hardin Family Dental to provide prompt treatment, which greatly improves survival rates and long-term health outcomes.
Schedule Your Screening Today
Oral Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of regular screenings. At Hardin Family Dental, we are dedicated to protecting your health. Don’t wait—schedule your screening today and take a proactive step toward prevention. Your health and well-being are worth it!
By staying informed about the causes of oral cancer, recognizing the signs, and taking preventive measures, you can take control of your health. Let Hardin Family Dental be your trusted partner in oral cancer prevention.
