Dr. Lestz discusses the incidence of oral cancer in the U.S.
What are the statistics for oral cancer in the U.S.?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that can occur in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and throat. Here are some statistics about oral cancer in the United States:
According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 54,010 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer in 2021.
Approximately 10,850 deaths from oral and oropharyngeal cancers are expected in the United States in 2021.
The 5-year survival rate for people with oral and oropharyngeal cancers is approximately 65%, but this varies depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis.
Men are more likely than women to develop oral and oropharyngeal cancers.
The risk of developing oral and oropharyngeal cancers increases with age, with the highest rates occurring in people over 50 years old.
Tobacco use, including smoking and smokeless tobacco, is a major risk factor for oral and oropharyngeal cancers.
Heavy alcohol use is also a risk factor for oral and oropharyngeal cancers, and the risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a risk factor for oropharyngeal cancers.
Regular dental check-ups can help detect oral cancers early when they are most treatable.
It's important to remember that these statistics are based on averages and that individual experiences may vary. If you have concerns about oral cancer or notice any unusual symptoms in your mouth or throat, it's important to talk to a healthcare professional.
How does a dentist check for oral cancer?
During a regular dental check-up, a dentist or dental hygienist will perform a visual and physical examination of your mouth and throat to check for signs of oral cancer. Here are some of the things they may do to check for oral cancer:
Visual exam: The dentist or hygienist will visually examine your mouth and throat for any abnormalities, such as white or red patches, sores, or lumps.
Physical exam: The dentist or hygienist will feel the tissues in your mouth and throat with their fingers to check for any unusual lumps or bumps.
Oral cancer screening tests: Some dentists may use additional screening tests to help detect oral cancer, such as a special light that can detect changes in tissue that may indicate cancerous or pre-cancerous cells.
Biopsy: If the dentist or hygienist finds any abnormal areas in your mouth or throat, they may take a tissue sample, or biopsy, to be sent to a laboratory for further testing.
It's important to have regular dental check-ups and to let your dentist know if you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms in your mouth or throat. Early detection of oral cancer is important for successful treatment and recovery.
Does vaping cause a risk of oral cancer?
There is growing evidence that vaping, like smoking, may increase the risk of oral cancer. Although e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, they do contain nicotine and other chemicals that can be harmful to the body, including the mouth and throat.
Some studies suggest that the chemicals in e-cigarettes may damage the DNA in cells in the mouth and throat, which can increase the risk of cancer. Other studies have found that e-cigarette vapor can cause inflammation and changes in the cells of the mouth and throat, which can also increase the risk of cancer.
Additionally, some e-cigarette liquids contain flavorings that have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. For example, some flavorings have been found to contain diacetyl, which has been linked to a serious lung condition called "popcorn lung" and may also be a risk factor for oral cancer.
It's important to note that e-cigarettes are still relatively new, and more research is needed to fully understand their long-term effects on oral and overall health. However, given the potential risks, it's a good idea to avoid vaping and to talk to your dentist or healthcare provider if you have any concerns. The following article (Click here) may be of interest if you want to full understand the risks of 'vaping'.
What are the possible signs of oral cancer?
- A sore or lump in the mouth that does not heal within 2-3 weeks.
- A red or white patch in the mouth that does not go away.
- Pain or difficulty when swallowing, chewing or speaking.
- A persistent sore throat or hoarseness.
- Numbness or tingling in the mouth or lips.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it's important to see your dentist or healthcare provider right away. Keep in mind that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to get a proper diagnosis to determine the cause. Early detection of oral cancer is key to successful treatment and recovery.
Early detection of oral cancer is important. The 5-year survival rate for people with oral and oropharyngeal cancers is approximately 65%, but this varies depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. - Richard Lestz, DDS
