The American Cancer Society estimates that over 40,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year. It’s important to understand the condition so you know how to prevent it. This week, April 22-28, is Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, and Dr. Greenfield wants to test your oral cancer knowledge with this short quiz.
1. Which of the following areas is not included in oral cancer?
A. Tongue
B. Lips
C. Throat
D. Brain
2. Which activity does NOT increase the risk of oral cancer?
A. Smoking
B. Flossing
C. Drinking alcohol
D. Sunbathing
3. Which system helps Dr. Greenfield detect oral cancer?
A. CEREC
B. Piezosurgery
C. VELscope
D. Oral sedation
4. Which of the following is NOT a symptom of oral cancer?
A. Mouth sores or lumps
B. Tooth stains
C. Ear pain
D. Change in color of oral tissues
Answers:
1. D. Oral cancer involves the formation of malignant tumors in the oral cavity. The affected area includes lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, floor or root of mouth, and throat.
2. B. Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, sun exposure, poor diet, and HPV. Research also shows that men and people over the age of 55 are more likely to develop oral cancer. To prevent oral cancer, you should practice proper daily hygiene, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and visit Dr. Greenfield regularly.
3. C. Dr. Greenfield uses VELscope to screen for oral cancer. The VELscope wand shines a light in the mouth and detects tissue abnormalities. Catching oral cancer early improves the chances of a healthy treatment, recovery, and survival.
4. B. Common symptoms of oral cancer include mouth sores that don’t heal, lesions that bleed easily, change in the color of oral tissues, lumps or thickening of oral tissues, white or red patches, difficulty chewing or swallowing, constant earaches, and tenderness or pain anywhere in the mouth.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, one person dies from oral cancer every hour. Dr. Greenfield recommends receiving an annual VELscope screening to help save your life. Contact Lake Orion Family Dentistry at (248) 693-6213 to request an oral cancer analysis. We welcome patients from Lake Orion, Oxford, Rochester Hills, Clarkston, and surrounding communities.
