More and more people are being diagnosed with oral cancer, which is, in fact, the most frequent among head and neck cancers. Moreover, although it is more common in men, especially those over 50 years of age, there has been an increase in the incidence in women and in people under that age: currently, more than one in 10 patients diagnosed with oral cancer are under 50 years of age.
How to prevent oral cancer
Fortunately, there are several measures to prevent the development of oral cancer and also benefit overall health, among which the following stand out:
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Reduce alcohol consumption (no more than three units per day).
- Eating at least five servings of fruits and/or vegetables a day.
- Protect lips from the sun with sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and avoiding the sun when UV rays are strongest.
- Maintain good oral health and hygiene
- Avoiding the possibility of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection by practicing safe sex.
Symptoms of oral cancer
Unfortunately, sometimes oral cancer does not present symptoms in its initial stage, which would allow an early diagnosis. That is why it is important to keep in mind that any red or white area, sore or lump in the mouth can be a sign of oral cancer, especially if it lasts more than three weeks.
Diagnosis of oral cancer
It is important to insist on the importance of detecting oral cancer early, as it has been shown that 90% of people who are diagnosed with oral cancer early survive.
Even so, it should be noted that still 6 out of 10 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed at too advanced a stage, which reduces survival and also produces serious sequelae because of the aggressive treatment that must be carried out.
That is why anyone who notices any of the above symptoms should promptly go to the dentist, physician or other qualified health professional to diagnose it and take the necessary measures in each case.