Watch your Mouth!

 

Did you know that Mouth Head and Neck Cancer is the sixth most common cancer in men worldwide? Men – Watch Your Mouth

 

You can reduce your risk of mouth cancer. Smoking and drinking alcohol are the most important risk factors. Alcohol plays a role in up to half of all cancers of the mouth, head and neck in men in Ireland. If you smoke and drink together, the risk is even greater as the chemicals in smoking allow the cancer causing chemicals in alcohol to pass through the tissues of the mouth easier. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is also associated with certain types of mouth, head and neck cancer.

 

 

Watch your mouth: Spot it Early

 

Early diagnosis of mouth cancer greatly improves your chance of successful treatment.When brushing your teeth, look out for any changes in your mouth or neck. Early warning signs include ulcers that do not heal within three weeks, red or white patches in the mouth, or a new lump in the mouth or neck.Other signs to get checked would be difficulty swallowing, persistent sore throat or hoarseness. Visit a dentist regularly for a mouth check even if you have no natural teeth.

 

 

Mouth, Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Month

 

This year Mouth, Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Ireland are specifically supporting men to reduce their risk of mouth cancer, joining forces with the Irish Men’s Shed Association.
Tips for a healthy mouth:

 

• Visit a dentist regularly even if you wear dentures.
• When brushing your teeth, look out for any changes in your mouth or neck.
• Use a lip balm that contains sunblock.
• Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Quit smoking tobacco, chewing tobacco, betel quid, gutkha and paan
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

 

For further information please see www.mouthcancerawareness.ie