Chief Dental Officer warns on oral cancer

The Chief Dental Officer for Northern Ireland, Doreen Wilson, has emphasised the benefits of visiting the dentist on a regular basis as a way of preventing oral or mouth cancer.

Mrs Wilson was speaking at the start of oral cancer week and the launch of an information leaflet about oral cancer. The leaflet, produced by the Oral Health and Regional Forum, sets out what to look for, how to reduce the risk and who can help.

Mrs Wilson said: “Approximately 445 new cases of oral or mouth cancer are diagnosed on the island of Ireland every year. Locally, nationally and internationally the incidence of this disease – particularly in the young male population – is on the increase.

“Dentists are well placed to detect cancerous and pre-cancerous lesions in the mouth early and thus afford the patient the best prognosis possible if further treatment is necessary." Regular oral checkups with the dentist – at least once a year – for everyone, even those with no natural teeth, is recommended. This, says the Chief Dental Officer, not only provides an opportunity for a full mouth examination but for other preventive advice to be given.

Mrs Wilson stressed that other factors can contribute to oral cancer.

“Although the cause of mouth cancer is not well understood it is recognised that alcohol and tobacco consumption are both risk factors. The combination of these factors has a multi-plicatory risk effect.”

Gerry McElwee from the Ulster Cancer Foundation welcomed the publication of the leaflet. He said: “As with all cancers, prevention is a key first step and most benefits can be achieved by helping people to stop smoking. It is also important that people report any signs or symptoms as early as possible and again the dentist has a key role to play in this.

“The Foundation sees this campaign as an added element to our ongoing partnership with dentistry. This will ensure that all patients are given appropriate support in both prevention and early diagnosis.”

(GMcG)