Oral cancer makes up less than five percent of cancer cases in the country. However, compared to many of the more common forms of cancer, it has a surprisingly high death rate. If you would like to analyze your chances of suffering this horrible disease, our Lynnwood Dentistry offers the following list of risk factors:
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Men account for 70% of oral cancer cases, with men over fifty being at the highest risk.
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People who use tobacco have a far higher risk factor for oral cancer than those who do not. This includes tobacco smoked in the form of a pipe, cigarette, or cigar, as well as smokeless tobacco products like chewing tobacco or snuff.
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Smoking marijuana puts you at a higher risk.
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Excessive consumption of alcohol greatly increases your risk, particularly if you are also a smoker.
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Excessive sun exposure can bring about oral cancer on the outside of your lips.
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An unbalanced diet can increase your risk of oral cancer. In particular, you want to make sure you get enough vitamin A.
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As oral cancer can be caused by the HPV virus, oral sex can raise your risk factor.
- A family history of cancer can be indicative of a greater cancer risk.
