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Oral cancer – understandably, these are two words we often don’t like to talk about. Educating yourself about this disease, though, is the best way to protect yourself and your family. Take a moment and get the facts about this formidable foe, and what you can do to keep your smile healthy and safe.
Oral Cancer Facts
Oral cancer refers to any cancer that develops in the area of the head and neck, excluding brain cancer. This can include the lips, tongue, gums, throat, as well as the tissue that lines the entire oral cavity.
The Oral Cancer Foundation reports that:
- Close to 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year.
- Over forty percent of those will have succumbed to the cancer within five years.
The National Cancer Institute states that:
- Oral cancer is more common is older adults.
- It occurs more commonly in blacks than in whites.
- Men are more likely to get oral cancer than women.
Those who both smoke and drink have a 15 times greater risk of developing oral cancer than others.
Studies reveal there are habits that can increase your likelihood of developing oral cancer, including:
- High exposure to sunlight, leading to cancer of the lips
- Tobacco use of any kind, including smokeless and chewing tobacco.
- Heavy use of alcohol.
- The combination of tobacco and alcohol. Statistics show those who both smoke and drink have a 15 times greater risk of developing oral cancer than others.
These are indeed sobering statistics. We’re therefore proud to provide your first line of defense against the progression of oral cancer—with our oral cancer screenings.
Oral Cancer Screening
The survival rates for oral cancer are significantly higher when the cancer has been diagnosed at an early stage. Our oral cancer screening is performed by our highly trained staff, who can detect oral cancer before it starts to show symptoms. This allows for treatment of the cancer before it has time to spread and greatly increases the odds of a full recovery.
Take Action
Being aware of oral cancer is one thing, but taking the appropriate preventive action is another. Help fight against cancer by sharing this blog with your friends and family. An oral cancer screening for you and your family can save lives. Book your appointment with us today!
Have you successfully overcome a cancer diagnosis? Share with us what helped you to do so with a positive attitude?
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