National Oral Cancer Awareness Month – The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
April is National Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of oral cancer screenings and early detection. Oral cancer affects thousands of people each year which can be a serious and life-threatening condition if not detected and treated early.
In this blog, we will discuss some essential facts about oral cancer, the importance of regular screenings, and How Uhapo Health Services is contributing to awareness and support during National Oral Cancer Awareness Month.
Understanding Oral Cancer
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, and tonsils. It is more common in men than women and is often linked to risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, as well as the human papillomavirus (HPV). The most common symptoms of oral cancer may include mouth sores, red or white patches on the tongue or gums, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and changes in the voice.
How to Prevent Oral Cancer
The risk factors for oral cancer are plenty. There is no sure way to prevent oral cancer. However, there are several factors that can increase your risk of developing oral cancer, and preventing it is a must –
- Stop smoking or chewing of tobacco – Stopping it all together can reduce your risk of oral cancer. As it contains harmful carcinogenic substances that can affect your health ultimately leading to cancer.
- Reduce frequent consumption of alcohol – Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the cells in your mouth making it vulnerable to oral cancer.
- Minimum sun exposure – Avoid sun exposure for a longer period of time and if possible cover your face to reduce direct exposure to harmful UV rays.
- Visit your dentist regularly – Regular dental checkups can help in the early detection of cancer as your dentist will spot the abnormal areas quickly.
Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a vital part of preventive healthcare and can help detect oral cancer in its early stages. During an oral cancer screening, a dentist or healthcare professional will examine the mouth, throat, and neck for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of serious complications.
In addition, to regular dental check-ups, individuals can also perform self-examinations at home to help detect oral cancer early. Some signs to look out for include sores or patches that do not heal, lumps or thickening of the skin or tissue, and persistent sore throat or hoarseness.
Uhapo Health Services and National Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Uhapo Health Services is committed to raising awareness about oral cancer and providing support to patients and their families. During National Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we are organizing various events and activities to promote awareness about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, as well as the importance of early detection and treatment. These activities include free cancer screenings, educational seminars, and support group meetings for patients and their families.
In addition, Uhapo Health Services is working to improve access to oral cancer prevention and treatment services for underserved communities. We are partnering with community organizations, healthcare providers, and policymakers to promote policies and programs that improve cancer outcomes and reduce health disparities.
Conclusion
Oral cancer is a serious health condition that requires early detection and comprehensive treatment. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, reducing exposure to risk factors, and getting regular check-ups, we can help to prevent oral cancer and increase the chances of successful treatment.Uhapo Health Services is proud to support National Oral Cancer Awareness Month and to provide support to patients and their families. If you or someone you know is in need of oral cancer prevention or treatment services, please contact us for more information on our services and support programs.