NHS Lanarkshire is supporting the annual Mouth Cancer Action Month, by asking all adults over the age of 16 to ‘Watch Yer Mouth!’ and regularly check for signs of mouth cancer.

The awareness month is organised by the Oral Health Foundation and works towards individuals:

• Knowing how to spot mouth cancer early and regularly checking for unusual changes in the mouth.
• Understanding what is likely to cause mouth cancer and reducing their risk.
• Acting quickly when seeing something out of the ordinary by visiting their dentist.

Susan Lyttle, senior health promotion officer – Oral Health, NHS Lanarkshire said “It’s so important to regularly check your mouth so that you can spot any changes and quickly seek help and advice from your dentist.

“Long lasting ulcers, red or white patches and unusual lumps and bumps are three common warning signs of mouth cancer. A simple check of the roof and floor of the mouth, gums, cheeks, tongue, lips, tonsils as well as our head and neck takes only 45 seconds and could be life-saving.

“Awareness of the risk factors for mouth cancer is important so we can all reduce our chances of developing the disease.”

Shelley Percival, clinical director, General Dental Services, NHS Lanarkshire, said “Regular visits to your dental team are so important. This makes it more likely that any problems will be caught as early as possible, including mouth cancer.

“The earlier a problem is caught, the easier it tends to be able to treat. Mouth cancer is no exception. The smaller the affected area, the better the chances are of a full recovery. If in doubt, please get it checked out!”

Albert Yeung, consultant in Dental Public Health, NHS Lanarkshire, said “To reduce our chances of developing mouth cancer, there are lifestyle changes we can make such as stopping smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, having a healthy diet and if eligible, getting the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine.

“If individuals experience any signs of mouth cancer or changes in the mouth, they should contact their dentist. Attending your dentist appointments for advice and a check-up is also important for good overall dental health.”

Shirley Mitchell, programme manager – Quit Your Way, NHS Lanarkshire, added: “Mouth Cancer Action Month is a great opportunity to raise awareness of the dangers of smoking tobacco to our oral health.

“Quit Your Way is a free stop smoking service within NHS Lanarkshire and is available for those who have any queries in regards to stopping smoking.”

For more information about Mouth Cancer Action Month and how to check your mouth visit: www.dentalhealth.org/mouthcancer and www.mouthcancerfoundation.org/mouth-cancer-action-month

Call the Quit Your Way helpline on 0800 84 84 84 or visit QuitYourWay.scot.

Watch our animation on how to spot the signs and lower your risk of mouth cancer.