A survey of 11,785 British adults has found that 70% are
unaware of any of the symptoms of mouth cancer.
Simplyhealth's Annual Dental Survey 2012 also found that
only 3% think kissing can increase your chances of developing mouth cancer.
James Glover of Simplyhealth says: "While 85% recognise
that smoking tobacco can increase their chances of developing mouth cancer,
there is a lack of awareness about other potential risks."
Only 28% would consider consulting or have consulted with
their dentist about concerns or queries over mouth cancer.
The main risk factors:
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Poor diet and nutrition
- Sun exposure
Most common symptoms:
- A mouth sore or ulcer that fails to heal or bleeds easily
- All red or red and white patches in the mouth that will
not go away
- A lump or thickening in the mouth, tongue or throat
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing food
- New persistent pain
Health cash plan news: 7 May 2012
