Oral cancer screening
Approximately 3 Australians are diagnosed with oral cancer every day [2] and over 600 die from it every year [1].
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Oral cancer is a condition that very few people are aware of and as a result it is often not detected until it is too late.
HEALTHY MOUTH & GUMS
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Oral cancer usually starts in the cells lining the mouth, lips, tongue or floor of the mouth; it can also occur on the palate, gums and cheeks.
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It is not generally screened for routinely so discovery is generally in late stages – there is no screening program in place as for cervical or breast cancer.
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Three Australians are diagnosed with oral cancer every day. [2]
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The death rate is higher for oral cancer than other cancers due to late detection [3]
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Only 51% of patients diagnosed with oral cancer are still living after 5 years [4]
What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
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A persistent mass, ulcer or blood blister that doesn’t heal, impaired tongue mobility, swollen lymph glands. There is often no obvious pain.
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The risk factors of oral cancer include:
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Smoking (smokers are six times more at risk than non smokers)
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Drinking alcohol (heavy drinking)
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An increased exposure to the sun of your lips
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A poor diet
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The human papilloma virus.
To help avoid late detection of this disease, you should have regular checkups by a dentist or hygienist who is aware of the symptoms and includes oral cancer in their checkups.
At Lotus Dental
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At Lotus Dental we routinely carry out oral cancer screening as part of your regular check up and preventative care.
1. “Rates of Oral Cancer Increasing” – Australian Dental Association Inc, 2012
2. Australian Dentist Association 2017 article
3. “Detecting Oral Cancer – Oral Care Facts” – Miller Hare
4. “Cancer” – Colgate Dental Programs – University of Adelaide. A joint program by Colgate Oral Care and The University of Adelaide