Oral cancer is one of the most deadly cancers that we can get. If it is left untreated you can expect to live about five years. However if it is diagnosed early, it is one of the more treatable cancers.

There are about twenty eight to thirty thousand people diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Some risk factors include, men over fifty years of age, folks who consume alcohol, and those that use tobacco. Some other factors include poor eating habits, obesity, lack of exercise, family history, or a history of head and neck cancer.

If you smoke, chew, use a pipe, smoke cloves or any other type or use of tobacco and drink alcohol, then you are at highest risk. Smokers are at high risk; while drinkers are at an elevated risk but somewhat lower than smokers.

Treatment of oral cancer can include surgery, prescription drugs, and or chemotherapy. Of course your doctor will know the best treatment options for you.

The best way to reduce your risk is by behavior modification. If you quit smoking you can reduce your risk of getting oral cancer. If you have had oral cancer in the past then you will certainly reduce your risk of getting it again. When you quit smoking you reduce your risk of getting many other cancers as well.

Here are the seven deadly symptoms you need to be aware of.

1. A lump in your neck
2. An earache
3. Loose teeth
4. White or red patches in your mouth
5. Oral bleeding
6. Mouth sores that won't go away
7. Pain and or difficulty swallowing

If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately.

The best advice I can give you is prevention. You can be ahead of the curve if you eat more fruits and vegetables, quit smoking, loose weight, and limit alcohol use and exercise. Also have your dentist screen you for oral cancer yearly or as directed.




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