November marks Mouth Cancer Action Month, a time to raise awareness of this growing health concern. In the UK alone, over 10,800 people were diagnosed with mouth cancer last year, and tragically, 3,637 lives were lost to the disease. With an increase of 49% in incidence over the past decade, mouth cancer is more common than ever, and early detection is crucial for improving survival rates.

Mouth cancer can affect anyone, but it is more common in men, with nearly two-thirds of cases occurring in people over the age of 60. While it is twice as common in men as in women, the number of women being diagnosed is on the rise. Up to 25% of cases have no significant risk factors, making it essential to be vigilant, even for those who don’t fall into high-risk categories.

Awareness of mouth cancer symptoms is worryingly low. Only 20% of adults can recognise the major signs, such as persistent mouth ulcers, red or white patches in the mouth, and unexplained pain or swelling. Many people aren’t aware that the disease is more likely to develop on the tongue and tonsils, with over half of cases diagnosed in the late stages.

At Smile Essential, we believe in the importance of regular dental checks to catch signs of mouth cancer early. Our experienced team can spot potential issues and refer you for further tests if necessary, increasing the chances of successful treatment. Early detection can significantly improve the 5-year survival rate, which has remained relatively unchanged in recent decades due to late diagnoses.

This Mouth Cancer Action Month, take the time to familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer, and ensure you’re maintaining regular dental appointments. It could save your life.

Take a look at keeping your mouth healthy here