Mouth Cancer Awareness Month: What to Look Out For and How to Help

November is Mouth Cancer Action Month. Join us in raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected by mouth cancer.

This November, we’re focusing on Mouth Cancer Awareness Month—an important time for talking about the signs, risk factors, and the impact mouth cancer has on those affected. Mouth cancer can develop in parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, and gums, as well as in the back of the throat. Over 8,000 people in the UK receive a mouth cancer diagnosis each year, and catching it early can make a real difference in treatment. (Source: Cancer Research UK)

This post covers what to know about mouth cancer, from symptoms and risk factors to how you can help raise awareness this month.

What is Mouth Cancer?

Mouth cancer, part of a group called head and neck cancers, involves cells in the mouth growing out of control, forming a tumour. Because it can affect eating, talking, and swallowing, mouth cancer can have a big impact on daily life, which is why spotting symptoms early is so crucial.(Source: NHS)

For more information on mouth cancer, visit the NHS Mouth Cancer page.

Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

Being aware of symptoms can mean catching mouth cancer sooner. Here are some things to look out for:

• Sores or ulcers that don’t heal within a few weeks

• Lumps or rough patches on the lips, gums, or inside the mouth

• Unexplained pain or numbness in the mouth or lips

• Red or white patches in the mouth or on the tongue

• Difficulty swallowing or a sore throat that won’t go away

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak to your GP or dentist. Early checks can make all the difference. (Source: Oral Health Foundation)

For a detailed guide on mouth cancer symptoms and diagnosis, you can visit the Oral Health Foundation’s Mouth Cancer Action Month page.

Who’s at Risk?

Knowing the risk factors can help people look out for themselves and their loved ones. Some of the main ones are:

• Tobacco and Alcohol: Smoking or chewing tobacco and drinking heavily are top causes. Together, they increase the risk even more. Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) provides support and resources for quitting smoking.

• HPV: The human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus, is also linked to mouth cancer, particularly at the back of the throat. Learn more about HPV and its link to mouth cancer on the HPV Action website.

• Age and Gender: Mouth cancer is more common in those over 40 and affects men more than women.

• Diet and Nutrition: A poor diet, especially one low in fruits and vegetables, may increase the risk.

Not everyone with these risk factors will develop mouth cancer, but knowing about them can help when it comes to making healthier choices and getting regular check-ups. (Sources: Cancer Research UK, NHS)

For more details on risk factors and mouth cancer prevention, check out Cancer Research UK’s mouth cancer page.

Ways to Support Mouth Cancer Awareness Month

Mouth Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about sharing facts; it’s about encouraging people to take action. Here’s how you can help make a difference this November:

1. Share What You Know: Help spread awareness by sharing information with friends and family. Direct them to trusted organisations like the Oral Health Foundation or Cancer Research UK for reliable resources.

2. Regular Check-Ups: Make sure you and your loved ones keep up with dental visits, which are crucial for oral health and help with catching early signs of mouth cancer. Dentists are trained to spot the symptoms and can help with further steps if needed.

3. Donate to Cancer Charities: If you’re in a position to help, consider supporting charities that focus on mouth cancer research and provide resources for patients and their families, such as Macmillan Cancer Support.

4. Healthy Choices: Cutting down on smoking and drinking, eating a balanced diet, and practising good oral hygiene all help lower the risk. If you’re concerned about your own risk factors, speak to a healthcare professional.
   

   
   

   

   Regular dental check-ups play a vital role in the early detection of mouth cancer. This Mouth Cancer Awareness Month, stay informed and proactive about oral health

   
   

Our Support for Mouth Cancer Awareness Month

To show our support this November, we’re offering a 20% discount on Radiaderm, a product designed to support those dealing with the effects of cancer treatments. Use MOUTH20 at checkout to claim the discount throughout November.

Radiaderm’s gentle formula can help soothe sensitive skin, which can be a real comfort for people going through treatment. We’re committed to doing what we can to support those affected by cancer, and we hope this offer provides a little extra help this month.

Final Thoughts

Raising awareness about mouth cancer can mean that more people spot the early signs, get treatment sooner, and have better outcomes. By sharing this post, encouraging check-ups, and making healthy choices, you can help reduce the impact of this disease. Let’s work together this November to make a difference.

If you’re interested in learning more or would like to try Radiaderm for yourself, use code AWARENESS20 for 20% off. And please, share this post to help spread the word and raise awareness for Mouth Cancer Awareness Month.