Are you at risk for oral cancer?

What African American men need to know 

Are African American men at risk for oral cancer?

Yes, African American men are one of the groups at highest risk for oral cancer—but many don’t know it.

Most cases of oral cancer are linked to cigarette smoking, heavy alcohol use, or the use of both tobacco and alcohol together. In fact, using tobacco plus alcohol poses a much greater risk than using either substance alone.

Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) may also play a part in oral cancer.

It’s not just smokeless tobacco (“dip” and “chew”). Using tobacco of any kind, including cigarettes, puts you at risk for oral cancer.

The risk of oral cancer increases with age. Most oral cancers occur after age 40.

The term oral cancer includes cancers of the mouth and the pharynx (FAIR-inks), part of the throat.

What are the possible signs and symptoms of oral cancer?

> A sore, irritation, lump or thick patch in your mouth, lip or throat

> A white or red patch in your mouth

> A feeling that something is caught in your throat

> Difficulty chewing or swallowing

> Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue

> Numbness in your tongue or other areas of your mouth

> Swelling of your jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable

> Pain in one ear without hearing loss

> Be on the lookout for any changes in your mouth, especially if you smoke or drink.

What should you do if you have symptoms?

See a doctor or dentist if any symptoms last more than two weeks.

Most often, symptoms (like those listed) do not mean cancer. An infection or another problem can cause the same symptoms. But it’s important to get them checked out—because if you do have cancer, it can be treated more successfully if it’s caught early.

Ask for an oral cancer exam. It’s quick, painless, and could save your life.

An oral cancer examination can detect early signs of cancer. During the exam, your doctor or dentist will check your face, neck, lips, entire mouth.

Source: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research in partnership with the National Cancer Institute, components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Md.