It is estimated that 36,540 new cases of oral cancer will be diagnosed in the US in 2010 and approximately 7,880 people will die from this disease. Oral cancer amounts for approximately 3 percent of cancers in men and 2 percent of cancers in women, and occur most frequently in black males. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, oral cancer kills roughly one person per hour, 24 hours per day and the survival rate has not significantly improved in over five decades. Although detection and treatment are possible at the early stages, most oral cancers are moderately advanced at the time of diagnosis, influencing treatment and prognosis. The cost of treating head and neck cancers each year amounts to approximately $3.2 billion.
There are multiple risk factors for oral cancer, including age, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HPV infection, exposure to ultraviolet radiation and a diet low in fruits and vegetables. Although most cases of oral cancer occur in people older that 45, data on the incidence of oral cancer has shown a substantial increase in those younger than 40 . While most oral cancers can be prevented by avoiding risk factors, it is noteworthy that approximately 25 percent of oral cancer occurs in those with no risk fctors. The American Cancer Society recommends the primary care physicians and dentists examine the mouth and throat as part of a routine cancer-related exam. Also, people at high risk for oral cancer should perform monthly self-examinations using a mirror to check for signs and symptoms of cancer in the mouth and throat.
We at Suwanee Dental Care will work together to reduce the incidence of oral cancer, to improve early detection practices, and to create an environment that supports saving lives as a practice priority.
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