The 5 Daily Habits That Increase Your Risk of Oral Cancer – and 8 Signs You Should Never Ignore

A WORRYING number of Britons are developing mouth cancer, with a new report warning of record cases.

Some 10,825 people are diagnosed with the disease each year, representing a 133 percent increase in cases over the past 20 years.

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Oral cancer can affect the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, or lips, with symptoms such as canker sores that do not heal, red or white spots in the mouth, and unusual bumps or swellings in the mouth. mouth, head or neck.

The charity Oral Health Foundation says it is the first time annual cases have exceeded the 10,000 mark.

Its chief executive, Dr Nigel Carter, warned: “While many types of cancer are in decline, oral cancer continues to rise.

“Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption remain the biggest risk factors, but we are seeing increasing numbers of cases linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) and other emerging causes.”

Despite this alarming increase, many people are unaware of the main causes and factors that put them at risk of contracting the disease, making them less likely to take medication. measures to reduce their chances of obtaining it.

According to the charity, only 8% of Britons can name the main causes of mouth cancer.

Dr Carter said: “Oral cancer can affect anyone and its impact on a person’s life can be devastating.

“We need to raise awareness of the symptoms, risk factors and, above all, the importance of early detection.

“Too many cases are diagnosed too late, often at the most advanced stages. This must change.”

In honor of Oral Cancer Action Month this November, the Oral Health Foundation reported five habits that could make you more likely to develop oral cancer and lifestyle changes to reduce your risk.

Dr Carter emphasized: “Understanding the risks associated with oral cancer is crucial for everyone.

“Take the time to learn about your own risk factors and make informed choices to reduce them.

“If you know you are at higher risk, be extra vigilant about changes in your mouth.”

1. Smoking

It’s well known that smoking can be harmful to lung health, but the habit is also linked to around 17% of mouth cancers in the UK.

This includes puffing on cigarettes, pipes and cigars.

According to the Oral Health Foundation, 38 percent of Britons have no idea that smoking could lead to mouth cancer.

Dr Carter said: “Smoking is one of the leading causes of oral cancer.

“Stopping smoking or using tobacco products can significantly reduce your risk.

“There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, including NHS stop smoking services and local support groups.

“Regular dental checkups are also crucial if you smoke.

“Your dental team can help you manage any oral disease caused by smoking and be trained to detect any more sinister conditions if they arise.”

2. Snus and chewing tobacco

Smokeless ways of consuming tobacco are not as common in the UK, but tobacco pouches called snus have recently seen an increase in popularity.

Nestled between the lip and gum, snus can give you a nicotine high and is said to have been used by football stars Jamie Vardy and Jamaal Lascelles.

But the Oral Health Foundation has warned that smokeless and chewing tobacco can increase the risk of oral cancer by up to four and a half times.

The charity’s research shows that 40 per cent of people don’t know the two are linked.

Common examples of smokeless tobacco are chewing tobacco in loose or compressed leaves, snuff – a finely ground tobacco that can be dry or moist – dissolvable tobacco in tablets or strips and snus.

In the UK, smokeless tobacco use is more prevalent in South Asian communities, particularly those of Bangladeshi, Indian and Pakistani origin.

Dr Carter said: “These products pose significant health risks and are often linked to cultural practices. »

“If you use smokeless or chewing tobacco, it is important to know that it is not a safer alternative to smoking. This misconception can be dangerous.

“To protect your oral health, try stopping these products and seek help from healthcare professionals.

“Regular dental checkups, maintaining good oral hygiene and using support services can make a big difference. »

3. Drink too much

Drinking too much can harm your health in several ways, including increasing your risk of oral cancer.

The Oral Health Foundation says that excessive drinking is linked to 34% of oral cancers, making it one of the leading causes.

But 58 percent of Britons don’t know the risks.

Dr Carter said: “Excessive alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for oral cancer, but awareness remains alarming.

“Many people who drink heavily may not realize the serious consequences it has on their oral health.

“By reducing your alcohol consumption and having regular dental checkups, you can significantly reduce your risk of oral cancer and improve your overall health.”

4. Risky sex

According to Dr. Carter, a growing number of cases of oral cancer are linked to HPV, a common group of viruses that affects areas such as the mouth, throat and genitals.

It is usually spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse, as well as oral sex and kissing.

Most people with HPV have no symptoms and the infection often goes away on its own, but some high-risk strains can cause warts.

For some, changes caused by the virus can lead to cervical cancer and oral cancer.

The number of cases of HPV-related oral cancer is increasing, with data showing that up to 73% of cancers in areas like the back of the tongue and tonsils are HPV positive.

But 8 percent of people know that HPV can cause oral cancer.

Practicing safe sex and getting tested for the virus can help protect you.

But UK teenagers and young adults also have access to an HPV vaccine.

Dr Carter explained: “The HPV vaccine has been offered to girls in the UK since 2008 and to boys since 2019.

“I urge parents to ensure their children are vaccinated. This is the most effective form of protection and is essential that it is applied before a person becomes sexually active.

“For those who are older and have not been vaccinated, it is important to be aware of the threat HPV poses.

“It is crucial to be alert for any changes in and around the mouth.

“Remember, just because you don’t smoke or drink doesn’t mean you’re safe from the risk of oral cancer.”

5. Unhealthy diet

What you eat can also influence your risk of getting the disease, as a healthy diet can reduce your risk.

Dr Carter noted: “A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and essential nutrients can significantly reduce the risk of developing oral cancer.

“It’s important to incorporate these elements into your daily routine for better overall health.”

Research has shown that regular fruit consumption can reduce the risk by 48 percent, while taking vitamin C supplements can reduce the risk by 24 percent, the Oral Health Foundation added.

It claims that calcium supplements could also reduce the risk by 36 percent, while drinking four cups of coffee a day could reduce your risk by 39 percent and drinking green tea by 20 percent.

“By making small, consistent changes to your diet, you can significantly protect yourself against oral cancer,” Dr. Carter said.

“Stay vigilant about your health and make informed food choices to support your oral health. »