How common is oral cancer?
Each year in the U.S. approximately 34,000 individuals are diagnosed with oral cancer and if you combine throat cancers it increases to 46,000. Oral cancer kills one person every hour in the United States. It is the 6th most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Sadly the mortality rate of oral cancer hasnt changed in over 30 years. The 5 year survival rate for oral cancer is 52% but when discovered early it can increase to 80-90%. Many women routinely get checked for cervical cancer but not as often for oral cancer and oral cancer is more common. The main risk factors for oral cancer are tobacco and alcohol use although it can occur in any patient. Tobacco use in all forms is the biggest risk factor as about 75% of oral cancer patients use tobacco. Early screening, diagnosis, and treatment planning saves lives. Unprotected exposure to the sun will increase the likelihood of lip cancer. Use at least SPF 30 sun block on your lips. Many chap stick type products come with these
