Cancer, which is primarily a disease of the older population, is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Cancer of the mouth is responsible for almost 30,000 new cases and 8,000 deaths each year in our country. More deaths are caused by mouth cancers than are caused by either cervical cancer or malignant melanoma (a form of skin cancer). Even though oral cancers account for less than 3 percent of all cancers, the fact remains that the mortality rate for mouth cancers remains high, especially if not caught early, and this has not changed in the past 40 years.
When detected early, the possibility of survival from mouth cancers is greater than that for many other cancers. The five year survival rate for patients with advanced cases or oral cancer is 19 percent, compared with 78 percent for patients with more localized lesions. The major risk factors associated with oral cancer are the use of tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, pipes snuff-related items) and the consumption of alcohol, and especially when tobacco and alcohol are used in combination.
Mouth cancers can largely be avoided through the modification of some behaviors which are known to increase the risk for acquiring this type of cancer. Cessation of tobacco use and moderation of alcohol consumption as the major risk factors can dramatically decrease the probability of acquiring oral cancer. Unprotected exposure to sun can cause lip cancer, and if exposure to sun is inevitable, a high strength sun block is recommended to protect the lips. As we age, the chance of acquiring oral cancer increases, so regular exams are even more important for the older population. The regular consumption of fruits and vegetables boosts the immune system and decreases the risk for many types of cancer, including mouth cancer.
When the disease is detected early, deaths resulting from oral cancer are more preventable than deaths from most other types of cancer. This means that regular screenings are important to catch any disease that might be starting. If you notice anything unusual in your mouth, or a sore that will not heal, have it examined as soon as possible. The good news is that many things can be done to significantly decrease the chance of getting mouth cancer, and it can be more easily treated if caught early. Make sure to ask a dentist if you have any questions, and increase your chance of a long, healthy life!