Oral Cancer Exam
Oral Cancer Awareness
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 43,250 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year, leading to over 8,000 deaths—approximately one person every hour. Only 60% of those diagnosed will survive for five years, primarily due to late detection.
Importance of Early Detection
Oral cancer often goes undetected until advanced stages. Fortunately, an annual oral cancer exam by Dr. Maggie Chao and Dr. Olivia Nguyen can catch it early when it’s more treatable. This quick, painless screening involves a visual and tactile examination of the mouth, lips, and tongue to identify any concerning changes. If abnormalities are found, a small tissue sample can be taken for further testing.
Who’s at Risk?
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but it traditionally impacts those over 40. Recently, younger individuals are increasingly affected, largely due to the spread of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV16). Other risk factors include:
- Age (middle-aged or older)
- Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption
- Long-term tobacco use
- Chronic sun exposure (linked to lip cancers)
- Genetic predispositions
Regular Screenings
A thorough oral cancer screening is included in your routine dental checkup. This involves assessing your lips, tongue, and mouth for unusual patches or sores, as well as palpating for lumps. Additional tools may be used for a more detailed examination.
If you notice any sores or color changes in your mouth that last longer than 2-3 weeks, it’s essential to get them checked out. Early diagnosis through regular screenings is a key defense against oral cancer.