Oral cancer is a serious condition, but with regular screenings, we can catch it early and significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancers of the mouth and throat. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and even the hard and soft palate.
In South Africa, oral cancer is a growing concern, with an increasing number of cases being reported each year.
The good news is that early detection can lead to much better outcomes.
Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
Screenings are crucial because they help detect cancer before symptoms become severe.
According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), early-stage detection of oral cancer can lead to a survival rate of up to 80-90% .
Without regular screenings, oral cancer may not be detected until it has progressed to a more advanced stage, making treatment more difficult and less effective.
The Oral Cancer Screening Process
Here’s what you can expect:
- Visual Examination: Our dentists will carefully examine your mouth, looking for any red or white patches, sores, or other abnormalities.
- Physical Examination: We will gently feel the tissues in your mouth for lumps or irregularities.
- Specialized Tools: In some cases, we might use special lights or dyes to highlight suspicious areas.
The entire process is quick and painless, usually taking just a few minutes during your regular dental check-up.
Benefits of Early Detection
The benefits of catching oral cancer early are immense:
- Higher Survival Rates: Early detection dramatically improves survival rates. The American Cancer Society states that the 5-year survival rate for oral cancer patients with early diagnosis is around 84% .
- Less Invasive Treatments: When cancer is detected early, treatment can be less aggressive and more effective.
- Cost Savings: Early treatment can reduce the overall costs associated with long-term cancer care.
- Better Quality of Life: Early intervention often means simpler treatments and quicker recovery times.
Who Should Get Screened?
While everyone should consider regular oral cancer screenings, certain groups are at higher risk:
- Tobacco Users: Smoking and using other tobacco products increase the risk of oral cancer.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumers: Excessive alcohol consumption is another major risk factor.
- Individuals with HPV: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to an increased risk of oral cancers.
- Age Groups: Although oral cancer can affect anyone, it is more common in individuals over 40.
We recommend that adults get screened at least once a year, but those at higher risk might need more frequent check-ups.
References
- CANSA, “Oral Cancer Early Detection,” https://www.cansa.org.za.
- American Cancer Society, “Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer,” https://www.cancer.org.
