What are oral cancer risk factors?

Anyone can get oral cancer, but there are some factors that can increase the chances of you getting the disease. Just like with any of the other types of cancer, oral cancer risk increases as you age. Additionally, men are more likely that women to develop the disease along with those 55 or older.

Other risk factors for developing oral cancer include: 

• Tobacco Usage: 80% of patients nationwide that are diagnosed with oral cancer yearly are tobacco users, whether it be through cigarettes or chewing tobacco. The amount of risk usually depends of the frequency and duration of the use. The more tobacco you use, the higher the risk of developing oral cancer. 
• Alcohol: About 70% of patients nationwide that are diagnosed with oral cancer yearly are heavy drinkers. Logically, the risk is much higher for patients that are heavy drinkers and also use tobacco. 
• Increased or prolonged sun exposure: Oral cancer of the lip is extremely frequent in patients that work outdoors or are increasingly exposed to sunlight. 
• Age: Even though the median age of patients diagnosed with cancer is 62, patients are encouraged to attend regular oral cancer screenings when over the age of 50. 

Patients with family history of the cancer or those who are at an increased risk of developing the disease are urged to visit much earlier. We invite you to schedule a visit to Bakersfield dental office for a cancer screening. The earlier you are diagnosed, the better chances you have for a cure. Call today!