A two-minute test will help detect oral cancer

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The number of oral cancer cases is increasing. In Great Britain alone, 8,300 new cases are detected every year, and about 2,700 men die. As in the situation with other types of oncology, early diagnosis is of great importance in the treatment of the disease. It takes only two minutes to detect oral cancer.

To begin with, let's figure out what kind of disease it is. Oral cancer develops on the surface of the tongue, on the inside of the cheeks, on the palate, gums or lips. About 90% of all cases are related to the patient's lifestyle. Yes, it has been proven that this type of oncology more often affects those who smoke, abuse alcohol and/or do not follow a balanced diet. The presence of the human papilloma virus (HPV) also increases the risk of developing oral cancer.

To detect the disease, you will need a mirror, good lighting and clean hands. It is also important to note that the inspection should be carried out once a month. During it, it is necessary to rule out characteristic signs of oral cavity cancer point by point. If any of them are detected, you should immediately consult a doctor.

So, the first thing that can indicate oral cancer is ulcers, red or white spots anywhere in the mouth. A lump or swelling in the mouth, jaw, or neck that persists for more than three weeks should also alert. Difficulty swallowing, chewing or moving the jaw is also a possible symptom of oncology.

Another sign is numbness of the tongue or any other part of the mouth. Feelings of something stuck in the throat, or chronic sore throat and/or hoarseness lasting more than six weeks are also noted. It is also worth contacting an oncologist in case of unexplained tooth loss.