Oral cancer affects nearly 400,000 new patients globally every year and results in nearly 200,000 deaths. While there are various causes of oral cancer — some less preventable than others — certain lifestyle choices can significantly increase risk.
Maintaining healthy habits and working with your dentist to develop preventive strategies are some of the best ways you can decrease the likelihood of developing oral cancer. In this article, we’ll explore how daily behaviors affect oral health, explore the key lifestyle factors that increase the possibility of developing oral cancer, and share key tips and guidelines you can use to keep yourself protected.
Understanding the Basics of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer typically involves malignant cell growth in the mouth, throat, lips, or tongue. Common symptoms include persistent sores, lumps, or red/white patches.
Other symptoms may include persistent bad breath, difficulty swallowing or speaking, or loose teeth. While these warning signs may not necessarily indicate oral cancer, you should get them checked immediately.
Oral cancer can be deadly — especially if not caught and treated early. Early detection and quick action can drastically increase the odds of successful treatment. Regular dental checkups and screenings are the best way to check for oral cancer symptoms, as your dentist can see areas of the mouth during cleanings that are otherwise difficult to see and check.
Major Lifestyle Choices That Increase Oral Cancer Risk
Oral cancer is not always preventable. However, certain behaviors substantially increase your risk of developing the disease, especially when done consistently over an extended period.
Tobacco Use
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes over the long-term elevates the likelihood of developing cancer in the mouth, throat, or lips. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, smokers are ten times as likely to develop oral cancer as non-smokers.
Chewing tobacco and snuff also expose tissues to carcinogens, which amplifies oral cancer risk.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Heavy drinking can also amplify cancer risk. Drinking can irritate mouth tissues and may compromise immune response. Substantial alcohol use can also cause cellular changes in the mouth and throat, which can make them more susceptible to damage from other carcinogens.
Poor Diet and Nutritional Deficiencies
A poor diet, such as one lacking in fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients, can weaken the body’s natural defense mechanisms and lead to a higher cancer risk.
Vitamins, such as Vitamin A and C are also essential for a balanced diet, as they support mucosal health and reduce inflammation.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Exposure
HPV strains, especially HPV-16, can infect the oropharyngeal region, leading to certain types of oral cancer. To reduce the risk of HPV exposure, proper vaccination is key. According to the Mayo Clinic, the HPV vaccine substantially reduces the risk of developing cancer-causing HPV, especially when given to children before the age of 15.
In addition to getting vaccinated, other safe practices can also limit your exposure to HPV. HPV is most frequently transmitted through sexual activity, so practicing safe sex is key to reducing your risk of exposure.
Other Contributing Factors
While the factors listed above have the most significant impact on increasing the likelihood of oral cancer, other factors can also pose a danger.
Chronic sun exposure over time can lead to lip cancer if protective measures aren’t taken. If you’re frequently out in the sun, be sure to apply sunscreen and lip balm to keep your mouth fully protected.
Genetics and family history can also play a factor in oral cancer risk. Individuals who have a history of oral cancer in their families may be predisposed to a higher chance of developing the disease. This makes it even more essential for these individuals to practice safe measures to keep themselves protected and minimize their odds.
Importance of Regular Screenings and Checkups
Regular screenings and checkups from dental professionals are critical to reducing the possibility of developing oral cancer. Dental professionals can perform visual and physical exams to spot early lesions or suspicious areas that can then undergo further testing.
Your dentist can also provide you with healthy lifestyle strategies that reduce or eliminate the risk of tobacco use, alcohol intake, or other risk factors. Early detection of oral cancer by a dentist may be a life-saving measure, as identifying the cancerous cells quickly leads to substantially higher survival rates.
Oral Cancer Screenings Available at Your Local Ideal Dental
While oral cancer is dangerous and potentially deadly, there are several things you can do to minimize your risk. Practice healthy lifestyle habits and visit your dentist regularly for screenings and checkups to keep yourself protected.
If you feel like you may have symptoms of oral cancer, or if you’re looking to take preventive measures by scheduling a checkup, contact your local Ideal Dental today.