Oral cancer (OC) is the 6th most common form of cancer in the world. The disease is more prevalent in developing countries, with India registering the highest number of cases. Similar to most types of cancers, early detection matters with oral cancer. Oral cancer is treatable when detected early. Regular dental checkups with a Cinnaminson dentist at our facility can help in the detection and treatment of the disease.

While oral cancer can affect anyone, there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of its development. The common risk factors of the disease include:

Tobacco Consumption

Tobacco is, probably, the most common risk factor for OC. Various studies have clearly linked cigarette smoking to cancers of the oral cavity. 

As reported by the U.S. Public Health Service, there is a direct causal connection that identifies tobacco consumption as a huge risk factor for OC. Most studies show that tobacco smokers have a 10 percent chance of developing oral cancer compared to non-smokers.

Age and Gender

There is a direct relationship between oral cancer and age. Oral cancer is rare in both children and young adults. However, the risk of the disease developing increases with age, the highest being between 40 to 69 years.

Oral cancer is also more frequent in men than women, at a ratio of 2:1. According to the American Cancer Society, this disparity may have to do with consistent tobacco and alcohol intake by men.

Alcohol Intake

Several studies suggest that frequent intake of alcohol increases the risk of oral cancer developing. The more alcohol you take, the higher the risk. The risk is even higher when alcohol is combined with tobacco, which is often the case with many study subjects. 

Human Papillomavirus

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that has over 100 different strains. The virus is one of the common risk factors for OC that has nothing to do with tobacco and alcohol consumption. Cases of oral cancers related to HPV are more prevalent in younger people, with HPV-16 showing an increased risk in the development of the disease.

Dental Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene has a possible role to play in the development of oral cancer. If you have bleeding gums or bacterial infections, visit us for dental checkups and treatment. Our team will carry out a thorough oral examination to eliminate the potential risks of OC that are related to poor oral health. 

Ultraviolet Radiation

Ultraviolet radiation from long exposures in the sun has been linked to skin cancer. People who tend to spend long periods in the sun are more likely to develop lip cancer due to the damaging effects of ultraviolet light.

Oral cancer is a health concern that can affect anyone regardless of their age, lifestyle, or geographic region. While it is important to learn about the risk factors, you should also commit to regular dental examinations to enable early detection of oral cancer. 

Visit https://www.maestrosmiles.com/ to learn more about oral cancer and how you can keep yourself and your family safe. 

Maestro Smiles

2800 Route 130 North, #108

Cinnaminson, NJ 08077 

(856) 786-1881

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