| | Updated: May 27, 2021 1:07 pm
Oral cancer myths
Oral cancer is a critical and deadly disease that is affecting millions of people. Oral cancer refers to cancer developing in the oral cavity (mouth) and the oropharynx (throat). The Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that one in the country dies every hour from oral cancer, this is curable if diagnosed and treated at an early stage. This is often witnessed among people over the age of 40. Several forms of HPV are also linked to oral cancer. The major risk factors of oral cancer are tobacco and alcohol consumption, including chewing tobacco.
The symptoms of mouth or throat cancer include sores, lumps, or rough areas in the mouth. One may also feel difficulty chewing food or moving tongue or jaw. In the initial stages, there are often no signs or symptoms present. Oral cancer is more common among those with gum disease. Tobacco and alcohol are risk factors for mouth cancer hence smokers and heavy drinkers should have re