GENESEO, N.Y., Nov. 16, 2022 – November is Mouth Cancer Action Month and Livingston County is encouraging residents to be aware of signs and symptoms of mouth cancer and to schedule routine check-ups with their primary care physicians.
Each year, thousands of people across the United States die from complications related to mouth cancer. A recent study undertaken by the Oral Health Foundation found that incidences of oral cancer have increased roughly 34 percent over the last 10 years and had a 103 percent increase compared to 20 years ago.
While not as common as other forms of cancer, certain risk factors including tobacco use of any kind, heavy alcohol use and excessive sun exposure to your lips may increase your chances of being diagnosed with mouth cancer.
Mouth cancer is often associated with a variety of symptoms including, but not limited to, a lip or mouth sore that doesn’t heal, a white or reddish patch on the inside of your mouth, loose teeth, a growth or lump inside your mouth, mouth and/or ear pain and difficulty or pain when swallowing.
The Livingston County Department of Health suggests making a routine appointment with your healthcare provider should you be experiencing these symptoms.
In addition, HPV, human papillomavirus, is thought to cause roughly 70 percent of all oropharyngeal cancers or those affecting the back of the throat, tongue and tonsils.
Learn more about mouth cancer, HPV and other important information regarding symptoms, treatments and more by visiting the oral Health Foundation’s website.
Stay up-to-date with the latest news, events and more by following Livingston County on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is comprised of more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.