We recently wrote a blog post about oral cancer and since there is so much to cover on the subject that it really needed a second post. Our previous blog post was about the symptoms and signs of oral cancer. This post will cover the causes of oral cancer.
For more information on this subject you can visit webmd where a lot of this research can be found
Here are some of the risk factors for developing oral cancer:
Smoking
This is probably the most well-known risk factor. Smoking does not just mean cigarettes but also includes cigars and pipes.
Tobacco Use, Not Smoked
If you chew tobacco, or dip or snuff be aware that you are 50 times more likely to develop oral cancer. This includes cancer of the check, gum and lining of the lips.
Genetics
If there is a history of oral cancer in your family you are more likely to develop it.
Sun Exposure
If you’re out in the sun a lot, especially while you’re young, you will be more prone to lip cancer.
Alcohol
You are six times more likely to develop cancer if you regularly/excessively drink alcohol.
Poor Diet
This is another reason to eat your fruit and veggies. Studies have shown that not eating enough of these can lead to oral cancer.
Age
If you are 55 or older you might be diagnosed with oral cancer. It is not necessarily that you developed it because of your age, but rather that it has just not presented itself before this age.
HPV
Human Papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted disease that is very common. This virus is causing more and more men under the age of 50 to develop cancer in the back of their mouths and throats.
Gender
Men are twice as likely as women to be diagnosed with oral cancer.
If you do not smoke or drink a lot and only do so occasionally and think you will be OK you should keep in mind that 25% of oral cancer occurs in people who do not smoke or drink regularly.
As noted in our previous post, the best way to having a good outcome with treatment of your oral cancer is early detection. This is why it is important to visit your dentist regularly so that we can look for the signs and symptoms that may present themselves and lead to a diagnosis. If you have any concerns about your dental health make sure you bring them up at your next appointment.
The information on this Blog is provided for general information, is not intended to provide medical, dental or surgical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No dentist/patient relationship is established by your use of this Site. No diagnosis or treatment is being provided. The information contained here should be used in consultation with a dentist of your choice. No guarantees or warranties are made regarding any of the information contained within this Blog.
