Tens of thousands of Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Oral cancer has a lower survival rate than several other common cancers due to the fact that it is often detected after it has already spread to the lymph nodes. Luckily, oral cancer has a high chance of being treated successfully if it is caught early enough. Here are some steps you can take at home right now to help reduce your risk of developing oral cancer.
Stop Using Tobacco
Smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco are all major risk factors for developing oral cancer. Plus, using tobacco also increases your chances of getting gum disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, lung cancer, and many other serious health conditions. Talk to your doctor about how to quit cigarettes or other tobacco products safely and effectively. Even secondhand smoke can increase your risk of tobacco-related diseases including oral cancer, so be mindful about spending time around people who smoke, too.
Drink Less Alcohol
Like tobacco use, alcohol consumption is another risk factor for oral cancer. People who drink heavily (defined as consuming four or more drinks at once for women and five or more for men) are twice as likely to develop oral cancer than non-drinkers. Excessive alcohol consumption also puts you at a greater risk of developing gum disease, liver problems, and other cancers in addition to oral cancer, so there are many reasons scaling back on drinking can improve your health.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating an abundance of fruits and vegetables every day allows you to get the vitamins and minerals that are essential in preventing and fighting a variety of diseases, including oral cancer. Some research also suggests that reducing your intake of red and processed meats, fried foods, and monounsaturated fats can help prevent oral cancer. To learn more about reducing your risk of oral cancer and other oral health conditions, contact our office today.
