This November, 30 Beaumont Street is proudly supporting Mouth Cancer Action Month, a crucial annual campaign led by the Oral Health Foundation. Mouth cancer affects thousands in the UK each year, and raising awareness is key to encouraging early detection and saving lives. By spreading information on mouth cancer signs, symptoms, and risk factors, we’re helping our community to be “mouthaware”—to recognise when something may be wrong and seek prompt advice.
What is Mouth Cancer Action Month?
Since 2000, the Oral Health Foundation has invested nearly £2 million in mouth cancer education. Every year in November, people across the UK share the campaign’s essential message of early detection. Joel Winter, a partner at 30 Beaumont Street with a special interest in restorative, aesthetic and Invisalign dentistry, says:
“Raising awareness for Mouth Cancer Action Month is incredibly important. As dentists, we see first hand the difference that early diagnosis can make. We urge everyone to be vigilant about any changes in their mouth and to visit us if they have concerns. Prevention and early action save lives.”
Recognising the Signs and Symptoms
Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates, so being aware of symptoms is essential. Look out for:
- Mouth ulcers that don’t heal within three weeks
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Lumps or swelling in the mouth, head, or neck
- Persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or speech changes
- Unexplained weight loss or bad breath
Daniel Molyneux, who has a postgraduate certificate in Root Canal Treatment and joined us in 2018, adds:
“Mouth cancer can be silent, with few symptoms early on. Regular checks can make all the difference, and as a team, we are here to help identify any issues before they progress. If you notice anything unusual, it’s best to get it checked out as soon as possible.”
Reducing Your Risk
Understanding the causes of mouth cancer can help reduce your risk. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain infections increase the likelihood of developing mouth cancer. Making informed lifestyle changes is a valuable step towards prevention.
Dr. Ioannis Vallis, who has a special interest in dental implants, emphasises the importance of education:
“As healthcare providers, we want our patients to feel empowered to make healthier lifestyle choices that reduce the risk of conditions like mouth cancer. Awareness campaigns like this play a significant role in spreading that message and encouraging proactive care.”
How You Can Get Involved
Supporting Mouth Cancer Action Month is straightforward yet impactful. From learning more about the disease to sharing information with loved ones or participating in local awareness events, your involvement matters. If you see something unusual, remember: don’t wait—get checked out by a dentist or doctor.
For more information and resources, visit the Oral Health Foundation’s page on Mouth Cancer Action Month 2024.