April Is Oral Cancer Awareness Month—Here’s Why It Matters

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a critical time to educate the public about a disease that is both serious and often overlooked.Oral cancer affects those of all backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, and ages. Early detection is crucial for increasing the chances of survival and long term prognosis. At Jay Platt DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we’re committed to raising awareness and providing comprehensive care that supports both early detection and effective treatment.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to cancer that occurs in any part of the mouth or upper throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, 58,500 Americans will be newly diagnosed with oral cancer this year, marking an increase in diagnosed cases annually for over a decade.¹

Risk Factors and Causes of Oral Cancer

The most common and well-documented causes of oral cancer, and thus increase in risk of cancer diagnosis include use of tobacco in any form and excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, has been linked to a rise in oropharyngeal cancers, especially in younger individuals who may not present with traditional risk factors.² Additional contributors to oral cancer include excessive sun exposure (particularly for lip cancer), poor diet, and a family history of cancer.³

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings

The early stages of oral cancer are often painless and may not be visible to the untrained eye, making routine oral cancer screenings a critical component of preventive care. These screenings are quick, non-invasive, and can be performed during regular dental visits. During the exam, your provider will check for abnormalities such as lumps, sores that don’t heal, red or white patches, and other unusual changes in the soft tissues of the mouth and throat.

Early detection is key, with five year survival rates increasing to up to 85% when early diagnosis takes place.⁴ . Unfortunately, most cases are diagnosed in later stages, when the disease has already begun to spread, and survival rates drop significantly. This highlights the importance of regular screenings—not only for those with high-risk lifestyles, but for every patient.

Signs to Look for at Home

While professional screenings are essential, you can also be proactive in your own health by knowing the signs of oral cancer. If you notice any of the following symptoms lasting longer than two weeks, it’s important to schedule an evaluation:

• Persistent mouth sores or ulcers
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of something caught in your throat
• Numbness or pain in the mouth, face, or neck
• Abnormal growths in the cheek, neck, or jaw
• Chronic hoarseness or voice changes
• Unexplained weight loss

Early detection starts with awareness. Don’t ignore symptoms, even if they seem minor.

How Often Should You Get Screened?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that adults receive an oral cancer screening at least once per year, though individuals with high-risk factors may benefit from more frequent evaluations.⁵ At Jay Platt DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we integrate screening into your routine care and make recommendations tailored to your health history and lifestyle.

Raising Awareness Saves Lives

Oral Cancer Awareness Month is more than just a calendar reminder—it’s a call to action. By understanding the risks, staying vigilant about changes in your oral health, and maintaining regular visits with your dental and medical providers, you are taking critical steps toward early detection and prevention.

If you’ve never had an oral cancer screening or have concerns about symptoms you’re experiencing, now is the time to schedule an appointment. Our team at Jay Platt DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center is here to help guide you through every aspect of your oral health journey.

Schedule your oral cancer screening today by calling (219) 864-1133 or visiting www.jplattdds.com. Your health is worth protecting—every month of the year.

1. Oral Cancer Foundation. (2024). Facts and Figures. https://oralcancerfoundation.org
2. American Cancer Society. (2024). What Are the Risk Factors for Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancers? https://www.cancer.org
3. CDC. (2023). HPV and Oropharyngeal Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/oropharyngeal-cancer.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/basic_info/hpv_oropharyngeal.htm
4. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2022). Oral Cancer Survival Rates. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov
5. American Dental Association. (2023). Oral Cancer Screening Guidelines. https://www.ada.org