Risk Factors of Oral Cancer

April is National Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and dentists are the first line of defense against this pervasive disease. So we’re going to post a series of short discussions about the facts, risks, diagnosis, and treatment of oral cancer throughout the month. Please ask questions in the comments, and don’t hesitate to contact the office with your concerns or to schedule a screening.

Earlier this month, we talked about the devastating statistics relating to fatality rates for oral cancer. Today we’re going to talk about who is predisposed to contracting it.

The first risk factor usually cited is age. Historically, the majority of cases occurred over age 40. Things have changed in this decade, however.

Most of you will guess that tobacco use is a huge risk factor, and it is. Combine that with alcohol consumption, and you’ve got a 15x greater risk than someone who does neither.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation or x-ray radiation is another factor. Oral cancer caused by too much sun exposure has decreased, thanks to awareness and use of sunscreens. Occasional x-ray exposure is safe; this damage accumulates over a long period of time.

On the rise are oral cancers caused by viruses and fungus, especially HPV16.

All patients should be sure their dentists give them a full oral cancer screening at each regular visit, but those with the above risk factors should be especially diligent.