At Dental Cure, our team is dedicated to the early detection of oral cancer, a critical component in successful treatment. During your comprehensive dental examination, we thoroughly check for signs of oral cancer. Early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of effective treatment, and our skilled team is trained to identify potential issues.
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors can elevate your risk.
Here are the top seven risk factors associated with oral cancer:
1. Age
Oral cancer risk tends to increase with age. While most cases are diagnosed around the age of 62, there’s been a noticeable rise in cases among those between 52 and 56 due to Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This trend underscores the importance of regular oral cancer screenings at any age.
2. Gender
Men are approximately twice as likely to develop oral cancer compared to women. This disparity is partly due to higher rates of alcohol and tobacco use among men. However, with changing social norms, more women are also at risk. Both men and women should prioritize regular oral health check-ups to catch oral cancer early.
3. Tobacco Use
Whether smoking or chewing, tobacco use significantly increases the risk of oral cancer. Tobacco can lead to cancers affecting the mouth, throat, cheeks, gums, and inner lips. Regardless of tobacco use, non-smokers should still schedule regular dental exams for early detection of oral health issues.
4. Alcohol Consumption
Heavy alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for oral cancer. The CDC defines heavy drinking as more than two drinks per day for men and more than one for women. While alcohol consumption greatly increases the risk, oral cancer can also develop in individuals who do not drink.
5. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV, a sexually transmitted infection, is linked to around 10,000 oral cancer cases annually in the U.S. Those with HPV-related oral cancers are often younger and less likely to smoke or drink. Regular visits to our office are crucial for monitoring and managing HPV-related risks.
6. Sun Exposure
Prolonged sun exposure, especially for those working outdoors, can increase the risk of lip cancer. Using lip balms with UV protection can help mitigate this risk. If you spend significant time in the sun, consider scheduling additional examinations with our team.
7. Diet
A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables may elevate oral cancer risk. However, oral cancer can still develop in individuals with otherwise healthy diets. Regardless of your nutrition, regular dental exams are essential for detecting potential issues early.
Conclusion
Oral cancer can affect anyone, and these risk factors are just a part of the broader picture. The key to successful treatment is early detection, which is why regular dental check-ups are vital. At Dental Cure, we emphasize the importance of comprehensive oral examinations to identify and address any potential issues promptly. Contact our office today to schedule your examination with our skilled team, including our dedicated Downers Grove dentist.
