-Oral Cancer Rates are Higher for Black and Hispanic Males than White Males; Early Detection is Critical –
The Dental Team at Phanord & Associates
MIAMI, FL – April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. The dental team at Phanord & Associates, along with their partner agencies, are joining other dental professionals across the nation to highlight the importance of early detection and encourage patients to schedule their regular dental checkups.
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, oral cancer rates are higher for Hispanic and Black males than for White males. Oral cancer is particularly dangerous because it may not be noticed by the patient in its early stages. It can frequently prosper without producing pain or symptoms they might recognize.
“The mouth is one of the body’s most important early warning systems,” said Dr. Kyle Phanord. “Many people don’t understand the importance and the benefits of a routine oral exam. Through a routine oral exam, we can identify abnormalities in the mouth and prevent potential issues from growing in size and severity,” added Dr. Kevin Phanord.
While the exact cause of oral cancer is unknown, several factors are known to increase your risk of developing it. These are:
- Tobacco and alcohol use.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Obesity.
- A family history of oral or other types of cancer.
- Being an older age.
- Gender. Men are more likely to develop oral and oropharyngeal cancers than women.
- Being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light.
Regular visits to the dentist and awareness of potential risks and symptoms of oral cancer are some of the best ways to prevent, detect, and treat this potentially life-threatening condition. As with many medical issues, early detection is the key to an improved prognosis. The more quickly oral cancer is detected, the better chance a patient has for treatment and recovery.
