Mouth Cancer Awareness: Self Check Guide

What is Mouth Cancer?

Mouth cancer refers to malignant tumours that develop in the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, gums, and throat. While it accounts for 8,700 new cases annually in the UK, its 5-year survival rate has seen minimal improvement over the years.

Facts About Mouth Cancer:

  • 1 life lost every 3 hours in the UK.
  • Worldwide incidence: 650,000 cases annually.
  • Twice as common in men, especially those over 55.
    Incidence has risen by 49% over the past decade.

Symptoms to Watch For

Early signs of mouth cancer can be subtle but crucial to identify. Look out for:

  • Ulcers or patches (red/white) that don’t heal within 3 weeks.
  • Lumps or swelling in the mouth, jaw, or neck.
  • Difficulty swallowing, chewing, or moving your jaw.
  • Persistent sore throat or hoarseness lasting over 6 weeks.
  • Unexplained weight loss or loosening of teeth.
 

Risk Factors for Mouth Cancer

Certain habits and conditions increase the likelihood of developing mouth cancer:

  • Tobacco Use: The leading cause of oral cancer.
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Multiplies the risk fourfold.
  • Combined Smoking and Drinking: Can make the risk 30 times higher.
  • HPV Infection: Transmitted via oral sex,
  • Poor Diet: Contributes to a third of cancer cases globally.
  • Sun Exposure: Increases the risk of lip and facial cancers.
 
 

Why Early Detection Matters?

Catching mouth cancer early significantly improves survival rates and treatment outcomes. Regular self-checks, paired with professional dental screenings, can identify problems before they become severe.

Supporting Mouth Cancer Awareness Month
This November, the Centre of Dental Excellence in Stanmore joins the campaign to raise awareness of oral cancer risks and symptoms. Our message is simple: “If in doubt, get checked out.”

Schedule your routine dental checkup with us today. Early detection saves lives.

2-Minute Self-Check Guide

Early detection is lifesaving, and a simple self-exam can make all the difference.

  • Face: Inspect for new lumps, swellings, or unusual skin changes.
  • Neck: Feel for any lumps under your jaw or on either side of the neck.
  • Lips: Examine inside your lips for sores or discolouration.
  • Gums: Gently feel for bumps, tenderness, or unusual areas.
  • Cheeks: Pull your cheeks aside and check for patches, ulcers, or tenderness.
  • Tongue: Check all sides of your tongue, including underneath, for lumps or colour changes.
  • Mouth Floor & Roof: Look for ulcers, swelling, or colour changes in the roof and floor of your mouth.