About mouth cancer… Mouth cancer is a disease which can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat. There are more than 7,591new cases of mouth cancer diagnosed in the UK each year. Anyone can be affected by mouth cancer, but it is more common in people over 40, particularly men. Mouth cancer is becoming more common in younger patients and in women. The number of new cases of mouth cancer is on the increase.

What causes mouth cancer? Smoking causes around 75% of all mouth cancer cases. Drinking alcohol to excess can increase mouth cancer risks by four times. Those who smoke and drink to excess are up to 30 times more likely to develop the disease. An unhealthy diet has also been linked to mouth cancer. Over-exposure to sunlight can also increase the risk of cancer of the lips. The Human Papillomavirus, transmitted via oral sex, is increasingly being linked to mouth cancer in younger people.

Reduce your risk Stop smoking – contact Quit Your Way FV Stop Smoking Services Drink less alcohol Eat your 5-a-day Call 01786 433293

...ABOUT MOUTH CANCER www.mouthcancer.org FACT CHECK ACT Young, old, smokers and non-smokers, more than 7,591 people will be diagnosed with mouth cancer this year in the UK. Without early detection half will not survive. Self-examination is a simple, potentially life- saving process. Look out for ulcers which do not heal within three weeks, red and white patches in the mouth, and unusual lumps or swellings. Know the risk factors and regularly visit your dentist to ensure you are checked for signs of mouth cancer. www.mouthcancer.org

Video by permission of CRUK Video available from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZI3udBHK44 Video by permission of CRUK