World Head and Neck Cancer Day - July 27th
July 27th is "World Head and Neck Cancer Day". This annual event is observed around the world to increase awareness about head and neck cancer amongst specialists, physicians, trainees, public at large and government officials.
Head and neck cancers include mouth and throat cancers. Your dentist and hygienist can play a critical role in detecting early signs.
World Head and Neck Cancer day is an opportunity to remind us all to look out for symptoms, such as those for mouth cancer, that might include;
• Ulcers that do not heal within three weeks.
• Red and white patches in the mouth.
• Unusual lumps or swellings in the mouth or head and neck area.
• Persistent hoarseness.
If any of these common symptoms are spotted, or anything that causes concern or is a deviation from 'normal' a dentist or doctor should be seen immediately.
How to self check
This is the Mouth Cancer Foundation's do it yourself mouth cancer check that may save your life. Are you checking your mouth for cancer once a month? Do it regularly and save your life!
Sources and further information:
https://www.ifhnos.net/about_ifhnos.html
https://www.dentalhealth.org/mouthcancer
