Asking the Right Questions about Oral Cancer
In the United States, one person dies from oral cancer every hour. We can raise awareness and save lives by asking the right questions.
Did you know that because of their location, most HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers may not be visible? This virus’s anatomical sites are most commonly found in the back of the throat, the base of the tongue, or the tonsil regions. For this very reason, it is important to raise awareness for oral cancer.
Oral cancer screenings, which include an enhanced extra- and intraoral visual and tactile exam, are an important part of our role as clinicians. But, are they sufficient?
According to the CDC, the majority of sexually active people will develop an HPV infection during their lifetime, and the majority of them will be unaware of it because 9 out of 10 of these people will clear the virus on their own. However, for some people, this virus can go dormant and then resurface as cancer. Educating our patients on the signs and symptoms is critical for early detection.
Ask about the following warning signs or symptoms during your patient interview and/or while performing your oral cancer screening:
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation that something is stuck in their throat
- A persistent cough that does not resolve after several days/weeks
- Any change or hoarseness in voice that persists for more than a few weeks
- Unilateral ear pain
- Any painless, fixated lumps on the outside of the head/neck present for two or more weeks
Positive answers to any of the preceding questions merit a referral to a specialist. Please keep in mind that in the United States, one person dies from oral cancer every hour of the day. Dental hygienists are on the front lines of early detection. Our efforts through education and awareness campaigns have the potential to save lives! Please support the fight against oral cancer.
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Call Prima Family Dental at 781-944-4450 and make an appointment with us today.
