November 04, 2025 - 117 views
A recent analysis by Public Health Wales has revealed that people in deprived areas of Wales are more likely to be diagnosed with mouth cancer and less likely to survive.
Late-stage diagnosis is a major challenge, with most cases identified at stage three or four.
Smoking, drinking, and HPV infection are major risk factors. Men are more affected than women, with the tongue and oropharynx being common parts of the body.
Professor Paul Brocklehurst, Consultant in Dental Public Health at Public Health Wales, said:
“Mouth cancer is one of the few cancers where we can often see or feel the early signs ourselves, yet too many people wait too long before seeking professional advice. We are urging anyone who notices anything unusual in their mouth, such as an ulcer that will not heal, a red or white patch, or a lump, to see their dentist or GP as soon as possible.”
Smoking and drinking remain two of the biggest preventable risk factors for mouth cancer, along with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in some cases.
The report also shows that men continue to be disproportionately affected by cancers of the mouth, with a ratio of two men to every woman diagnosed.
The tongue and oropharynx continue to be the most common sites for mouth cancer, and five-year survival rates remain below fifty percent for people diagnosed at advanced stages.
The report stresses the importance of prevention, early detection, and lifestyle choices in reducing risk. Prevention, early detection, and lifestyle changes are crucial in reducing risk.
The Oral Health Foundation advises reducing the risk of mouth cancer by quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, eating a healthy diet, visiting the dentist regularly, and using lip sun protection when outdoors. Take care of your oral health to lower your chances of developing mouth cancer.
Professor Brocklehurst added: “We are seeing improvements in some groups, but far too many people are still being diagnosed when the cancer is already well advanced. Early detection saves lives and simple changes such as stopping smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and having regular dental check-ups can significantly lower your risk.”
