Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer affects an estimated 34,360 Americans each year. Of these, more than 25% will die of the disease.
Although the use of tobacco and alcohol are risk factors in developing oral cancer, approximately 25% of oral cancer patients have no known risk factors. There has been a nearly five-fold increase in incidence in oral cancer patients under age 40, many with no known risk factors.
- The incidence of oral cancer in women has increased significantly, largely due to an increase in women smoking.
- In 1950 the male to female ratio was 6:1; by 2002, it was 2:1. African-Americans are especially vulnerable; the incidence rate is 1/3 higher than whites and the mortality rate is almost twice as high.
Regular dental check-ups, including an examination of the entire mouth, are essential in the early detection of cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions. Oral cancer screening is a routine part of your annual dental examination at Smiles by Design.
