Simplyhealth sponsors Mouth Cancer Action Month

This November, healthcare provider Simplyhealth is sponsoring Mouth Cancer Action Month, an annual campaign organised by the British Dental Health Foundation. The month seeks to raise awareness of mouth cancer, its symptoms and the potential risks of contracting the disease.

Caroline Newton, Simplyhealth spokesperson says: "We are proud to be sponsoring this campaign alongside our colleagues at Denplan. Mouth cancer cases have risen over the last decade by almost 50%, which is a worrying trend(i). Promoting awareness of mouth cancer is incredibly important, especially when you consider how recent research found that 70% of adults are unaware of any of the symptoms(ii).

"This year's strapline is 'If in doubt, get checked out'. We want to highlight the key risks of mouth cancer, inform individuals of the symptoms and encourage them, should they have any concerns, to speak to their dentist as soon as possible".

Signs and symptoms of mouth cancer include(iii):

• Ulcers which do not heal within three weeks
• Red and white patches in the mouth
• Unusual lumps or swellings in the mouth

Although not all cases of mouth cancer can be prevented there are several lifestyle factors that have been identified as risks. These are(iv):

• Smoking                        
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Poor diet
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV virus)

The campaign aims to get dentists and patients to engage with the topic of mouth cancer and to raise awareness to aid early detection, a practice that can transform five year survival rates.
For more information on the campaign please visit www.mouthcancer.org
(i) www.mouthcancer.org
(ii) Simplyhealth Annual Dental Survey 2012
(iii) + (vi) www.mouthcancer.org