November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month!
Did you know that more than 11,000 people are diagnosed with mouth cancer in the UK every year, with around 10 people losing their lives every day? Cases have increased significantly over recent years, making awareness and early detection more important than ever.
Mouth cancer can affect anyone, not just people who smoke or drink alcohol. Signs to look out for include unexplained lumps or bumps, mouth ulcers that don’t heal within three weeks, red or white patches, persistent soreness, difficulty swallowing or an unexplained lump in the neck. Regularly checking your mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks and gums can help you recognise changes that are unusual for you.
Know your mouth. Look for changes. Don’t ignore the signs. If you notice anything unusual or persistent, contact your dentist or GP promptly. Early detection can make a real difference.
Wear blue on Blue Wednesday 18th November to help promote Mouth Care Action Month and reduce the risk of mouth cancer.