April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Nobody likes talking about any type of cancer. It’s a scary epidemic that continues to take the lives of thousands each and every year. Oral cancer, specifically, is a fairly common type of cancer in the United States with over 45,000 cases diagnosed every year. Of those diagnosed, about 9,700 will lose their battles with the disease. At our Valparaiso dental office, we want to take time during Oral Cancer Awareness Month to educate our patients and neighbors on the risk factors and signs of oral cancer, and why it’s so important to catch it early.

The Importance of Early Detection

Oral cancer is very treatable when caught early, which is one of the reasons that maintaining appointments with your dentist is so important. In between your dental visits, it’s best to know the early signs of oral cancer so you’re able to seek treatment quickly.

Recognize the Signs

Oral cancer can develop anywhere from the lips, tongue, and cheeks to in and around the throat. But sometimes diagnosis can be tricky. A lot of oral cancer symptoms can easily be mistaken for other problems. If you recognize any of these signs, call your dentist in Valparaiso immediately to schedule an oral cancer screening:

• Chronic bad breath
• A sore or several sores that don’t go away
• A lump on the cheek
• Difficulty swallowing
• Changes in your voice

Know the Risks

There are several lifestyle and hereditary factors that can increase someone’s risk of developing oral cancer. Please know that while these are common risk factors, anyone can develop oral cancer even if none apply to them.

• Gender: Men are two times more likely to develop oral cancer than women.
• Age: The majority of oral cancer patients are over the age of 55 and on average, most people are diagnosed at 62.
• Tobacco: Nearly 80% of oral cancer diagnoses are in tobacco users.
• Alcohol: About 70% of those diagnosed with oral cancer are heavy drinkers.
• Tobacco & Alcohol Combo: Those who use tobacco and drink heavily have a 15 times greater risk.

This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, take control of those risk factors that you CAN change and quit smoking, chewing tobacco, or using alcohol excessively. If you have other questions about oral cancer, call our dental office in Valparaiso.

Welcoming patients from Valparaiso, Portage, Chesterton and beyond. 

About The Author

Dr. Joseph Majka

After earning his dental degree in 1993, Dr. Joseph Majka provided dental care for migrant farm workers’ children through the Indiana State Department of Health. Months later, he began practicing family and cosmetic dentistry. For years, he was involved in different charitable activities, providing free dental care for the underprivileged in the community. Dr. Majka has attended several continuing education courses that cover all aspects of dental care and is affiliated with numerous dental associations.

Read The Full Bio