--- title: Facts You Should Know for Oral Cancer Awareness Month description: Oral Cancer Awareness Month is coming up in April, 2018. How much do you know about this quiet killer? Are you doing what you should to keep yourself and your family safe? image: https://blog.edentalsolutions.com/hubfs/Oral%20Cancer.png --- - [Home »](https://blog.edentalsolutions.com) - [Top Dental and Wellness Stories »](https://blog.edentalsolutions.com) - Facts You Should Know for Oral Cancer Awareness Month # Facts You Should Know for Oral Cancer Awareness Month April 16, 2025 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) ![Oral Cancer](https://blog.edentalsolutions.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Oral%20Cancer.png?width=635&height=332&name=Oral%20Cancer.png) Oral Cancer Awareness Month, observed every April, is an important time to educate ourselves and others about oral cancer. Awareness is the first step towards prevention and early detection, which can significantly improve outcomes for those affected by this disease. Here are some key facts everyone should know: ## What is Oral Cancer? [Oral cancer](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11184-oral-cancer) refers to cancers that develop in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can occur on the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palates, sinuses, and pharynx (throat). Like other cancers, early detection can dramatically improve survival rates. Key Statistics - Prevalence: Oral cancer is more common than many people realize. It accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States. - Demographics: Oral cancer is more [prevalent in men](https://oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/#:~:text=From%20a%20gender%20perspective%2C%20for,white%20males%20over%20black%20males.) than women and is more commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 50. - **Mortality:** The [American Cancer Society](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer.html) estimates that nearly 54,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, with about 10,850 deaths. - **Survival Rate:** When detected early, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer patients is around 84%. However, if diagnosed at a later stage, this rate drops significantly. ## Risk Factors Understanding the [risk factors](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html) can help in prevention efforts: - **Tobacco Use:** Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco are major risk factors for oral cancer. - **Alcohol Consumption:** Excessive alcohol use can increase the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use. - **Human Papillomavirus (HPV):** Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, are linked to oropharyngeal cancers. - **Sun Exposure:** Prolonged exposure to the sun can increase the risk of lip cancer. - **Diet:** A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase risk. ## Symptoms to Watch For Being aware of the [symptoms](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mouth-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20350997) can lead to earlier diagnosis: - Persistent mouth sores - Unexplained bleeding in the mouth - Red or white [patches](https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/newsplus/understanding-oral-cancer-causes-symptoms-and-treatments/#:~:text=The%20first%20signs%20of%20oral%20cancer%20can,tissues%2C%20or%20unexplained%20bleeding%20in%20the%20mouth.&text=They'll%20check%20for%20things%20like%20unusual%20sores%2C%20patches%2C%20lumps%2C%20or%20swelling.) inside the mouth - Difficulty chewing or swallowing - Numbness or pain in any area of the mouth - Ear pain not associated with hearing loss ## Prevention Tips - Regular Dental Checkups: Dentists can spot early signs of oral cancer during routine checkups. - Avoid Tobacco: [Quit smoking](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/prevention.html) and avoid other tobacco products. - Limit Alcohol: Drink in moderation. - Use Sun Protection: Apply a lip balm with SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. - Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. ## Importance of Awareness Oral Cancer Awareness Month is about spreading knowledge and encouraging preventive measures. By understanding the risks and symptoms, and by supporting research and education, we can work towards reducing the impact of oral cancer. Remember, awareness can save lives. Encourage your friends and family to learn more about oral cancer and to take preventive actions. Regular screenings and being vigilant about changes in your oral health are key steps in the fight against oral cancer. Want more tips on how improve your oral health and [save on dental care](https://www.edentalsolutions.com/start-saving.aspx)? 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