The data, published in the charity’s State of Mouth Cancer Report, revealed there are now 10,825 new cases of mouth cancer in the UK every year. This has increased by 133 per cent in the last 20 years.
The research, released as part of November’s Mouth Cancer Action Month, reveals that mouth cancer remains widely misunderstood and often overlooked, with almost a quarter (23 per cent) unaware that cancer can occur in and around the mouth.
The report also revealed a significant lack of awareness of key early warning signs. Fewer than half (43 per cent) of UK adults are aware that mouth ulcers lasting more than three weeks could indicate mouth cancer. Even fewer recognise the risks associated with lumps or swelling in the head, neck, or mouth (42 per cent), red patches (38 per cent), or white patches (32 per cent) in the mouth. Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) are unable to identify any symptoms.
Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation, believes a government-funded campaign on mouth cancer is long overdue and could be crucial in raising life-saving awareness.
Nigel said, “The statistics paint a worrying picture. Without a significant awareness drive, people will continue to ignore the early warning signs, resulting in late-stage diagnoses that drastically reduce survival chances. Immediate action is vital to save lives.
“We need to break the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mouth cancer, ensuring people understand that it can affect anyone. Awareness and education are our strongest tools, empowering the public to recognise symptoms and seek medical advice promptly before it’s too late.”
The research also found that many people are unaware of where mouth cancer can develop. Although around a third (31 per cent) of all mouth cancer cases occur on the tongue, nearly half (44 per cent) are unaware that cancer can affect this area.
The charity’s report also revealed that nearly one in five (19 per cent) people reported experiencing at least one potential early warning sign of mouth cancer in the past year. However, fewer than one in three (31 per cent) of these sought advice from a healthcare professional.
Many of those who chose not to seek professional help believed their symptoms were not serious. Others were concerned about the potential cost of treatment, had difficulty securing an appointment, or avoided seeking help due to fear of receiving bad news.
Nigel said, "Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates and improving a person’s quality of life after treatment.
"A government-funded awareness campaign is essential to help people understand the importance of recognising symptoms early and seeking professional advice before it’s too late. If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth – anything that doesn’t look or feel right – get it checked out by your dentist or doctor."
Raising awareness
Karen Liesching-Schroder was diagnosed with tongue cancer, leaving her and her husband Ian in a relentless battle to raise awareness about a disease many still know very little about. They have urged the public and government to take action to save lives.
Karen said, "I had no idea. I'm a healthy person – I run, don’t smoke, rarely drink, and eat well. I didn’t realise mouth cancer could happen to me.
“We need more awareness everywhere – in dental practices, doctor’s surgeries and even in places of work. It is an issue. There’s not enough awareness for people to understand the intricacies around these cancers.”
For more information visit www.mouthcancer.org