04/05/2024
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Oral and pharyngeal cancer (cancer of the mouth and upper throat) collectively kills nearly one person every hour of every day of the year. Of the people newly diagnosed with these cancers, only about 60% will live longer than 5 years. Moreover, many who do survive suffer long-term problems such as severe facial disfigurement or difficulties eating and speaking. The death rate associated with oral and pharyngeal cancers remains particularly high due to the cancer being routinely discovered late in its development.
Symptoms to look for:
🚨Persistent sores or ulcers that don’t heal within two weeks
🚨Unexplained bleeding in the mouth, unexplained loose tooth or teeth
🚨White or red patches in the mouth
🚨Swelling, lumps, or bumps on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth
🚨Difficulty chewing or swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue
🚨 Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
FACT: Regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection and can save lives. If you notice any of these symptoms, please speak to your Dentist immediately. If you do not have one, ask us for guidance. If there are any suspicious lesions your dentist will make a referral to an oral surgeon for a biopsy.
Dr. Brett Shirley is one of 40 doctors in the country to be a diplomate in head and neck oncologic and reconstructive surgery. He did a fellowship in Maxillofacial Oncology & Reconstructive Surgery to further his training in the removal and reconstruction of oral cancer.
We encourage you to please get any suspicious lesions checked if they persist more than 2 weeks.
EARLY DETECTION IS KEY!
