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Mouth Cancer Awareness Day Wednesday 15 September

13 Sep 2021

The annual Mouth Cancer Awarness Day takes places this Wednesday 15 September. 

Over 700 cases of mouth, head and neck cancer are diagnosed every year in Ireland, and this figure has been steadily increasing in recent years.  While Mouth, Head & Neck Cancer can occur at any age, the majority of mouth cancers are diagnosed in the over 55’s, regardless of whether or not they still have their own natural teeth or may be wearing dentures.

This year the campaign will focus on raising awareness of the link between Alcohol and Mouth Cancer

The aim of MCAD is to:

  1. Promote public and professional awareness of mouth head & neck Cancer and the link between alcohol and these cancers. 
  2. To establish in the public mind their “right to know” the links between alcohol and mouth head and neck cancers.
  3. Promote early detection and encourage earlier presentation with signs and concerns about mouth head and neck cancer to improve potential outcomes.

Early detection of mouth cancer improves treatment and outcomes:

“If you have a sore, ulcer, lump in your mouth, a sore throat or neck lump for more than 3 weeks, ring your dentist or doctor immediately to get it checked.”

 Call to Action:

  1. Check your mouth before you brush your teeth.
  2. If you have a sore, ulcer, lump in your mouth, a sore throat or neck lump for more than 3 weeks, get checked by a dentist or doctor within 7 days.
  1. Visit your dentist regularly, at least once a year, even if you have no teeth and wear dentures. 9 out of 10 adults in Ireland are entitled to a FREE oral exam, please check your entitlements on www.citizensinformation.ie

If you care for someone, remind them of  the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer and encourage them to check their  mouth and to visit their dentist at least once a year even ifthey have no teeth and wear dentures.

Go to www.mouthcancer.ie which provides information, videos and pictures of how to maintain good oral health, how to reduce the risk of mouth cancer and identify the signs of mouth cancer. 

Mouth Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Ireland is a partnership involving the Dublin Dental University Hospital, Cork University Dental School and Hospital, Irish Dental Association, Dental Health Foundation, National Cancer Control Programme, Irish Cancer Society, Spunout.ie  and Cancer survivors.

 

For more on this story contact:

www.mouthcancer.ie 

Cork University Dental School & Hospital

Wilton, Cork, Ireland,

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