Our International District dentist is about more than just cleaning your teeth and giving you a bright smile. We can also help protect you from the ravages of oral cancer. Though this cancer accounts for a small percentage of cancers in the US, it has a disproportionately large death rate compared to many of the more common cancers. Take a look at this list of oral cancer risk factors to see what kind of threat you might be facing:
- 70% of oral cancer cases occur in men, with men over fifty being at the greatest risk.
- Tobacco increases your oral cancer risk by a huge degree, whether it is smoked or enjoyed in a smokeless form, like chewing tobacco or snuff.
- Smoking marijuana puts you at a high risk of oral cancer.
- Unguarded exposure to the sun can bring about oral cancer in the exposed regions of your lips.
- Excessive alcohol is linked to oral cancer, particularly if the drinker is also a smoker.
- A diet deficient in vitamin A, and other poor dietary habits, can increase your oral cancer risk.
- Since cancer can be linked to the HPV virus, engaging in oral sex can raise your risk factor.
- A family history of cancer is always a sign of an increased cancer risk.
The most important key to surviving oral cancer is detecting it at an early stage. If you’re a high risk for oral cancer, be sure to get your regular cancer screenings with your dentist.