Experts in the UK are advising people to pay attention to cancer symptoms that can be detected when brushing, the Daily Express reported.
The recommendation is given when the number of oral cancer in the UK reaches the highest level of all time, for the first time surpassing 10,000.
The new data collected by Oral Health Foundation shows that there are 10,825 new oral cancer cases that have been diagnosed in the UK each year - an increase of 133% in the past 20 years.
Artwork of oral cancer.
The 2024 report of this charity shows that 66% of oral cancer in the UK is diagnosed in men, and people over 50 years old account for 90% of the total number of cases.
These findings have motivated health experts to issue warnings about oral cancer symptoms to help people detect early.And there is a main symptom that can be detected when brushing.
When brushing your teeth, pay attention to abnormal symptoms.
Cancer symptoms may be detected when brushing
According to Oral Health Foundation, 31% of oral cancer occurs in the tongue.Therefore, the important warning sign to pay attention isAny white patch on the tongue or inside the mouth.This can be detected when brushing daily.
The second most common symptom is found in tonsils, accounting for 22% of oral cancer cases.Other affected areas include lips, gums, palate and mouth floor, cheeks.
Oral cancer can cause non -healing mouth ulcers, red or white patches in the mouth, tumors or abnormal swelling in the mouth, head or neck.
Dr. Nigel Carter, CEO of Oral Health Foundation, warned: “While many types of cancer are decreasing, oral cancer continues to increase.Smoking and excessive drinking are still significant risk factors, but we are witnessing an increase in the number of cases related to human papilloma virus (HPV) and other emerging causes.Oral cancer can affect anyone and affect life can be very cruel. ”
“We need to raise awareness about symptoms, risk factors and most importantly, the importance of early detection.Too many cases are diagnosed too late, usually at the most progressive stage.This needs to change. ”
The British National Health Service (NHS) said that oral cancer may affect any part of the mouth and pay attention to any of the following symptoms:
- The mouth ulcer lasts for more than three weeks
- A red or white patch inside the mouth
- A tumor inside the mouth or on the lips
- Pain inside the mouth
- Difficult to swallow
- Difficult to speak or hoarse voice
- A lump in the neck or throat
- Unintended weight loss.
It is important to note that these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, but NHS recommends that you go to a general doctor or dentist to check for prevention because of early detection of cancer can helpEasier treatment.
It is not always possible to prevent oral cancer, but the following can help reduce the risk of disease:
- There is a healthy diet consisting of five fruits and vegetables every day
- Do exercise
- Reduce drinking alcohol
- Leave smoking.