The county’s oral health team is to kick-start Mouth Cancer Month, which runs during November, with an awareness roadshow.It will be making its way around Northamptonshire, stopping at Corby and Irthlingborough.
With mouth cancer claiming more lives than cervical cancer and testicular cancer combined, the oral health team wants Northamptonshire residents to know the warning signs before it’s too late.
Oral health specialist, Mary Egan, of Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The most common signs of mouth cancer are ulcers, sores, or red and white patches in the mouth that last longer than three weeks. Other symptoms may include unexplained pain in the mouth, ear or difficulty swallowing.
“Early detection is important, the earlier the diagnosis, the greater the chance of survival. So if you have any on-going, unexplained mouth sores or irritations speak to your dentist and get it checked out.”
The primary risk factors for mouth cancer are smoking and a heavy intake of alcohol. Research shows that at least three out of four cases of mouth cancer could be prevented by quitting smoking and drinking less alcohol. The oral health team will be joined by the trust’s Stop Smoking Team on the roadshow.
It will be at Lakeside Urgent Care Centre, Cottingham Road, Corby, on November 6, from 9am until 5pm, and at Pen Green Children’s Centre, in the town, on November 20, from 10am until 12.30pm.
The roadshow will visit Nene Park Outpatients Centre, Attley Way, Irthlingborough, on November 13, from 9am until 5pm. Evening Telegraph
