Great Expressions Dental Centers Speaks Out Against Oral Cancer
Did you know that in 2018, an estimated 51,540 people will contract oral cancer and an estimated 10,030 people will die as a result, says the American Cancer Society.
In honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month this month, Great Expressions Dental Centers is speaking out against oral cancer by sharing helpful facts about the disease and the importance of monitoring your and your family’s oral health care.
Here are some Oral Cancer Fast Facts:
- Oral cancer comprises 85 percent of all head and neck cancers
- At least 75 percent of those diagnosed with oral cancer have been tobacco users
- Any sore in your mouth not healed within 14 days, should be looked at by a professional as it could be oral cancer
- Close to 50,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year
- Oral cancer will cause nearly 10,000 deaths this year
- Oral cancer kills roughly one person per hour, 24 hours a day
- 86 percent of oral cancer cases are in those over 50 years old
- Examine your mouth monthly for sores and symptoms
- Mouth cancer is twice as common in men than women
- Drinking alcohol to excess is linked to a third of all oral cancer cases
- The human papillomavirus is a leading cause of oral cancer
- There are more deaths from oral cancer than there are from road traffic accidents
- Oral cancer occurs twice as often in African American populations than Caucasians
- The five-year survival rate of oral cancer is 50 percent
- There is no way to prevent oral cancer, but you can take measures to lower your risk
In addition to your efforts, throughout the month of April, GEDC is giving all patients complimentary oral ID screenings, a two-minute exam that aids in catching oral cancer at early stages. Find a location near you today and schedule your screening.
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