Oral cancer afflicts tens of thousands of people each year, and close to 10,000 people die from it. While it is not the most common form of cancer, it still deserves attention! Are you at risk for oral cancer? This blog post discusses some risk factors for this disease and provides guidance on how you can protect your health.
Nonmodifiable Risk Factors
There are some risk factors for oral cancer that you cannot control, including:
- Your age. In most cases, oral cancer takes many years to develop. Therefore, it occurs more commonly in older individuals.
- Your sex. Statistically, biological makes are more likely to develop oral cancer than biological females.
- Genetic factors. Some genetic syndromes may increase the risk of cancer.
Modifiable Risk Factors
You have a degree of control over some risk factors that could increase your chances of developing oral cancer:
- Alcohol and tobacco use. Tobacco products on their own are a big risk factor for cancer. When they are combined with excessive alcohol use, the risk is even greater. Quitting these habits could improve your quality of life now and protect you well into the future!
- Body weight. Obesity is linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, so it is important that you try to manage your weight. (This does not mean that you have to be “thin.” Often, modest weight loss is all that is necessary for significant health benefits.)
- HPV. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease, and it is linked to an increased risk of oral cancer. Young people should receive vaccines to protect against it. Good judgement regarding sexual intimacy is also important.
- Sun exposure. Excess time spent in the sun may significantly increase your risk of lip cancer, so you should wear a hat along with SPF lip balm when you are outside.
- Poor nutrition. A lack of essential vitamins and minerals can open the way for cancer to develop. Try to eat lots of fruits and veggies!
Protect Yourself from Oral Cancer
In addition to reducing your modifiable risk factors for oral cancer, you should also attend regular oral cancer screenings. Most dentists include such a screening during routine checkups. If they notice anything unusual, they can help you arrange for further testing. The earlier oral cancer is caught, the more likely it is that it can be stopped before it becomes life-threatening!
Are you at risk for oral cancer? You might be! Pay attention to your risk factors and undergo regular screenings so you can protect your smile and your overall health.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Steve Koo and William Shepard are the board-certified oral surgeons at Piney Point Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Katy/Cypress. In addition to offering oral cancer screenings, they also perform procedures to help fight against existing cancer. To learn more about how they can help you protect yourself against this dangerous disease, contact our office at 832-353-1100.