Oral cancer accounts for 2.9% of all diagnosed cases of cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society it is estimated that 51,000 people across the country will develop oral cancer this year and that 10,000 fatalities are expected from the disease.
Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the orofacial complex including the tongue, the tonsils and oropharynx, the gums, floor of the mouth, lips, cheek lining or the hard palate. Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women, especially men over the age of 50 who are heavy smokers and frequently drink alcohol. Additional risk factors may include UV exposure from the sun or sunlamps, GERD (gastro-intestinal reflux disease), prior head and neck radiation treatment, exposure to certain chemicals and poor diet. The death rate from oral cancer has been decreasing in the past several decades thanks to early detection and advanced methods of treatment improving the outcomes of care.
As part of his comprehensive exam, Dr. Moudy will perform a screening for oral cancer. He will review your medical and dental histories and ask if there have been any changes to your oral health or overall health. He will then carefully check in and around the oral cavity as well as the head and neck area for any signs or symptoms that may indicate the presence of a problem.