APRIL
Oral Cancer is one of the most common yet most preventable cancers. Out of the 70,000 people diagnosed this year with head and neck cancer, 30 percent of those will involve cancer of the oral cavity.
While most people are aware of the link between smoking and lung cancer, few realize that the use of tobacco products is the #1 cause of oral cancer. Among people who neither smoke nor drink, this type of cancer is nearly non-existent.
If detected early the 5-year relative survival rate is approximately 81%. The American Cancer Society and the American Dental Association recommend yearly professional oral exams.
Get Screened!
A careful oral examination is the first step in prevention. Free screenings occur all over the US and abroad any time during the year. In April, there is a pinnacle week, named the Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week® which promotes a high volume of free screenings all over the world, plus educational talks and other awareness programs.
DIY At-Home Screening for Oral Cancer in 7 Steps
COVID-19 has cancelled oral cancer screenings across the globe. So here’s our 5-minute self-screening you can do while safely at home!
The goal of this annual initiative is to encourage adults to take advantage of the nationwide and international free screenings. A key message of the campaign is that early diagnosis is key to successful treatment of these types of cancers.
You can learn more and find a screening near you on the OHANCAW® website.
Don’t use tobacco products!
This includes cigarettes, cigars, dip, snuff, and chew.
Get Screened!
Get an annual oral exam from your family dentist, primary care physician or attend a free screening in your local area.
