Life choices impact on smile

Oral cancers account for up to 6.5 per cent of all cancers diagnosed in Australia and is the sixth most common cancer in the world.

Despite this, the lifestyle link to oral cancer is not well understood which is why this year’s Dental Health Week (1-7 August), is focusing on how life style choices can put you at risk.

HNE Health’s Oral Health Service Clinical Director Dr Lanny Chor says at least three Australians are diagnosed with oral cancer each day.
 
 “Early detection of oral cancer can save lives, so it’s important to know what you should be looking out for in your mouth,” Dr Chor said.

“Oral cancer rates are increasing so knowing how to reduce your risk is vital.”

Dr Chor says recognising symptoms and early detection of oral cancers can help save lives.

“Smoking, alcohol, poor diet, sun exposure and the human papilloma virus all contribute to a person’s risk for oral cancer,” he said.

During Dental Health Week Hunter New England Oral Health will be raising awareness about oral cancer, contributing risk factors and lifestyle changes that can help reduce a person’s risk of getting oral cancer.

Risk factors for oral cancer:

Smoking: 60% of people diagnosed with oral cancer are smokers. Only 50% of smokers with oral cancer survive after five years.

Alcohol: Regular heavy drinking, defined as more than four standard drinks on a single occasion , increases your risk of mouth cancers. Smoking and alcohol combined further increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.

Sun Protection: Extended exposure to the sun without using sun protection (SPF) can cause squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) this form of sun cancer has a high risk of spreading.

Diet: Eating a minimum of eight serves of vegetables per week, compared to three or less decreases the chance of mouth cancer by 50%.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV): Younger people, non smokers and light alcohol consumers are also at risk of oral cancers.  A major risk factor in these cases appears to be the human papilloma virus, the virus known to cause genital warts and cervical cancer. Research suggests the human papilloma virus transferred from the genital area to the mouth can increase the risk of oral cancer. Researchers hope the cervical cancer vaccine may also reduce the number of oral cancers caused by the human papilloma virus. 

Clean Well
• Brush teeth twice (2) a day
• Floss teeth once a day

Eat Well
• A healthy diet rich in vegetables and lean protein
• Two (2) serves of fruit a day
• Reduce your intake of sugary foods

Drink Well
• Reduce your intake of sugary drinks
• Drink plenty of fluoridated water especially between meals
• Drink no more than two standard alcoholic drinks per day

Stay Well
• Don’t smoke
• Check your mouth regularly for unusual sores or lesions
• Have regular check ups so your dental professional can check your teeth and your mouth
• Talk to your health professional about the HPV vaccination. The vaccination protects against strains of the HPV that can cause cervical cancer and may also protect against the types of oral cancers caused by the HPV

Play Well
• Protect your skin including your lips and face
• Wear a hat when outdoors where possible
• Avoid oral piercing in and around the lips, tongue and mouth

Seek immediate advice from a dental or medical professional if you notice any unusual symptoms or sores on your lips or in your mouth.

For more information visit www.dentalhealthweek.com.au

Contact: Sharna McCarthy

Phone: 4921 45010