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This
screening process is, a trip to the dentist, and 46% of the UK's
adult population do not visit a dentist regularly. The dentist
will carry out a "soft tissue examination', which can
highlight small lumps, bumps or areas of concern in the mouth
which may be the first signs of oral cancer. By the time these lesions
become obvious to the patient, it can be too late.
A visit to the dentist can save your
life.
Facts
About Oral Cancer
4000
new cases of oral and throat cancer are diagnosed every year
Four
people die each day from oral cancer in the UK
The
average five-year survival rate of patients with oral cancer is only
50%.
If
a malignant (cancerous) area is under 2cm in diameter when
detected the survival rate is about 70 to 80%.
If
detected later your chances of survival are less than 20%
Experts
believe that oral cancer could reach epidemic proportions in the next 30
years with the surge in youth smoking. The incidence is particularly
high especially in Scotland and industrial areas of northern England
where smoking and drinking levels are high.
The
risk of oral cancer increases with age: 95% of all cases in Britain
occur in people aged over 40.
Who
Is Most At Risk?
If
you smoke or drink alcohol, your risk of oral cancer increases
If
you smoke and drink the risk increases dramatically
Sunlight
is a major cause of cancer of the lip
What
Can Be Done To Prevent It?
Give
up smoking
Reduce
alcohol intake below the recommended limits
Use
sun block on your lips and face as well as all other areas of exposed
skin
A
diet high in fruit and vegetables is also though to help prevent this
disease
Attend
the dentist for regular examinations. All
dental examinations at the Craigentinny Dental Practice include an oral
cancer check.
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