Mouth Cancer – what are the risks?

It goes without saying that smoking is a contributory actor when it comes to cancer, and mouth cancer is no exception.  Start making plans to become a non-smoker as soon as you can, if you’re not one already.

Excessive drinking of alcohol is also a strong contributory actor.  The recommended units of alcohol intake per week is just 14 units.  Double check how much you are drinking each week and make efforts to reduce the amount if you drink more than the recommended amount. 

Chewing and smokeless tobacco should also be avoided.

A third of mouth cancers are linked to an unhealthy diet.  Whilst a little fit of what you fancy does you good, try to stick to the 80/20 rule and eat healthy 80% of the time with occasional less healthy foods.

Wear sunscreen and don’t forget to protect your lips too… sunbeds are best avoided.

If you fall in to one of the following groups you may have an increased risk of developing mouth cancer:

If you have previously had mouth cancer

If you have had oesophagus, skin, cervical, penile or anal cancer

If you have had a close relative with mouth cancer

If you have a genetic condition affecting your bone marrow, skin or fingernails

If you are undergoing treatment for HIV or AIDS

If you are taking medication after an organ transplant

If you fall into a group that makes you high risk then it is even more important that you recognise the signs of mouth cancer (please see our previous news article HERE) and that you attend the dentist regularly.

You can find out more about Mouth Cancer Action Month HERE