Almost 5,500 new cases of mouth and throat cancers are reported each year. In the past it was men that were mostly afflicted with this disease. Now more cases among women are arising then ever before. This could be happening for numerous reasons.
Cancer is a disease of cells. These groups of cells that are affected form a lump or swelling, which is usually known as a tumor. The tumor can grow and damage surrounding tissue and organs. Cells can also break away from the tumor and spread throughout the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Mouth and throat cancers are those that originate in the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, palate, tonsils, and pharynx. The following people are at an increased risk of developing mouth and throat cancers:
*Those aged 40+
*Those who smoke and/or chew tobacco
*Those who drink alcohol (more than 2 drinks/day)
*Those with history of leukoplakia or erythroplakia
*Those overexposed to ultraviolet(UV) rays
*Those who consume a diet low in fruits and vegetables
To help prevent oral cancer from developing removing any of the above listed risk factors from your lifestyle are recommended. Once the risk factor is removed your body begins to recover. Also its important to be aware how important the food choices we make are. Scientists have found convincing evidence to show that diets rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of oral cancer. This may be due to the presence of vitamin C.
When you visit your dental health care provider they will perform an oral cancer screening. This involves visually examining all the tissues of the oral cavity and skin on the face and throat for variations of the norm. This can include lumps, bumps, red or white patches, wrinkled tissue, etc. Visiting your dentist and hygienist routinely will aid in the identification of any changes within your mouth. Also, take a proactive role in your health and examine your own skin and mouth for any notable changes that do not resolve themselves within 10-14 days. If you were to notice a change that did not go away within this time frame contact your oral health-care provider for further examination.
For other dental related topics visit:
www.examiner.com/x-21984-Jacksonville-Dental-Health-Examiner~y2009m8d28-Periodontal-disease-and-you
(*All of the above information was provided by the World Cancer Research Fund*)
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Hi, I am a Dental Examiner in Milwaukee. I am also a dental hygienist. I like your article. I plan to subscribe to get updates on your articles. Are you having trouble finding AP photos?
Thanks for writing!
Ann
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