Oral health experts are calling on the public to check their mouths regularly for early signs of cancer, as new cases of oral cancer have more than doubled in the UK over the past 20 years, with a significant increase among those under 50.
According to research by the Oral Health Foundation, public awareness of the warning signs has not kept pace with the rise in cases. Fewer than a third of adults have ever checked their mouth for suspicious changes, and half would struggle to identify a single symptom.
Dentists are urging people to pay close attention to mouth ulcers, which are often dismissed as a minor symptom of being run down. "It's easy to explain away an ulcer, patch or lump, especially if it doesn't hurt," said Catherine Brady, a registered dentist and President Elect of the foundation. "But a change that persists for over three weeks needs checking by a healthcare professional."
Most oral changes are not cancerous, but a professional diagnosis is crucial. Experts advise contacting a dentist or doctor if any change is unusual, emphasizing that no one should feel they are wasting medical professionals' time.
Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, inside of the cheek, and lips. Ulcers on the gums or tongue that do not heal within three weeks are considered a key indicator. Dr. Victoria Sampson, a functional dentist, noted that a persistent, painless ulcer on the tongue can be a significant warning sign.
Karen Liesching-Schroder shared her experience of ignoring an ulcer on her tongue for weeks, which eventually developed into what was diagnosed as tongue cancer. She had never smoked, rarely drank alcohol, and considered herself healthy, highlighting that the disease can affect anyone regardless of lifestyle factors.
Treatment for mouth cancer depends on its size and spread, but typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and potentially surrounding areas to prevent recurrence. This can sometimes involve parts of the tongue or jaw.
Other common symptoms include red or white patches inside the mouth, unusual lumps or swelling on the lips, cheeks, tongue, or neck, difficulty swallowing, and a hoarse voice. Primary causes include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and the human papillomavirus (HPV).
While the risk of mouth cancer increases with age, the rise in younger diagnoses is concerning. Experts suggest potential contributing factors include a lack of access to NHS dentistry, where early signs might be detected, and changing lifestyle factors such as vaping. Research indicates that vaping can cause DNA changes and inflammation in the mouth, increasing cancer risk.
Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of mouth cancer fourfold, and combined with smoking, the risk is elevated approximately 30-fold. Poor diet, social deprivation, and sun exposure are also considered potential risk factors.
The Oral Health Foundation recommends regular self-examination in front of a mirror to become familiar with what is normal for one's own mouth. Checking for unusual swellings, sores, ulcers, or lumps under or around the tongue after brushing can aid early detection.
The HPV vaccine offers protection against the virus, which is a primary cause of oral cancer, particularly for individuals vaccinated at a young age. While smoking and alcohol consumption are historically major risk factors, HPV is projected to become the leading cause within a decade as rates of these habits decline. Early detection remains critical, and individuals are urged to seek professional advice promptly for any persistent or concerning changes in their mouth.