The 5 everyday habits that increase your risk of mouth cancer – and 8 signs you must never ignore

A WORRYING amount of Brits are developing mouth cancer, with a new report warning of record-breaking cases.

Some 10,825 people are being diagnosed with the disease each year, marking a 133 per cent rise in cases over the last 20 years.

Mouth cancer can affect gums, tongue, inside the cheeks, or lips, with symptoms including mouth ulcers that don’t heal, red or white patches in the mouth, and unusual lumps or swellings in the mouth, head, or neck.

The charity Oral Health Foundation says this is the first time annual cases have surpassed the 10,000 mark.

Its chief executive Dr Nigel Carter warned: “While many types of cancer are declining, mouth cancer continues to surge.

“Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption remain the most significant risk factors, but we are seeing a growing number of cases linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV) and other emerging causes.”

Despite this alarming rise, many people aren’t aware of the main causes and factors that put them at risk of the disease, making them less likely to take steps to reduce their chance of getting it.

According to the charity, just 8 per cent of the Brits can name the leading causes of mouth cancer.

Dr Carter said: “Mouth cancer can affect anyone, and the impact on a person’s life can be devastating.

“We need to raise awareness of the symptoms, the risk factors, and most importantly, the importance of early detection.

“Too many cases are diagnosed too late, often at the most advanced stage. This needs to change.”

In honour of Mouth Cancer Action Month this November, the Oral Health Foundation flagged five habits that could make you more likely to develop mouth cancer and lifestyle tweaks to lower your risk.

Dr Carter stressed: “Understanding the risks associated with mouth cancer is crucial for everyone.

“Take the time to learn about your own risk factors and make informed choices to reduce them.

“If you know you’re at higher risk, be extra vigilant about changes in your mouth.”

1. Smoking

It’s well known that smoking can be harmful to your lung health, but the habit is also linked to around 17 per cent of mouth cancers in the UK.

This includes puffing on cigarettes, pipes and cigars.

According to the Oral Health Foundation, 38 per cent of Brits have no idea smoking could lead to mouth cancer.

Dr Carter said: “Tobacco use is a leading cause of mouth cancer.

“Quitting smoking or use of tobacco products can significantly reduce your risk.

“There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, including NHS smoking cessation services and local support groups.

“Regular dental check-ups are also crucial if you smoke.

“Your dental team can help you manage any oral diseases that have been caused by smoking and trained to spot anything more sinister if it arises.”

2. Snus and chewing tobacco

Smokeless ways of consuming tobacco aren’t as common in the UK, but tobacco pouches dubbed snus have seen a recent rise in popularity.

Tucked in between the lip and gum, snus can give you a nicotine buzz and has reportedly been used by football stars Jamie Vardy and Jamaal Lascelles.

But the Oral Health Foundation warned that smokeless and chewing tobacco can increase a person’s mouth cancer risk by up to four-and-a-half times.

The charity’s research shows that 40 per cent of people don’t know the two are linked.

Common examples of smokeless tobacco are chewing tobacco in loose or compressed leaves, snuff – a finely ground tobacco that can be dry or moist – dissolvable tobacco in tablets or strips, and snus.

In the UK, smokeless tobacco use is most prevalent among South Asian communities, particularly those of Bangladeshi, Indian, and Pakistani origin.

Dr Carter said: “These products pose significant health risks and are often linked to cultural practices.”

“If you use smokeless or chewing tobacco, it’s important to know that it’s not a safer alternative to smoking. This misconception can be dangerous.

“To protect your oral health, try to quit these products and seek help from healthcare professionals.

“Regular dental check-ups, maintaining good oral hygiene, and using support services can make a big difference.”

3. Drinking too much

Drinking too much can affect your health in many way – including raising your risk of mouth cancer.

The Oral Health Foundation says excessive boozing is linked to 34 per of mouth cancers, making it one of the main causes.

But 58 per cent of Brits don’t know the risks.

Dr Carter said: “Excessive alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for mouth cancer, yet awareness remains alarmingly low.

“Many people who drink heavily might not realise the serious impact it has on their oral health.

“By reducing your alcohol intake and attending regular dental check-ups, you can significantly lower your risk of mouth cancer and improve your overall health.”

4. Unsafe sex

According to Dr Carter, a growing number of mouth cancer cases have been linked to HPV, a common group of viruses that affects areas like the mouth, throat, and genitals.

It’s usually spread through skin-to-skin contact during sex, as well as oral sex and kissing.

Most people with HPV don’t show any symptoms and the infection often goes away on its own, but certain high risk strains can cause warts.

For some, the changes caused by the virus can lead to cervical cancer and mouth cancer.

The number of mouth cancer cases linked to HPV is on the rise, with data showing that up to 73 per cent of cancers in areas like the back of the tongue and tonsils are HPV-positive.

But 8 per cent of people know HPV can cause mouth cancer.

Practising safe sex and getting tested for the virus can help protect you.

But teens and young adults in the UK also have access to an HPV-combating vaccine.

Dr Carter explained: “The HPV vaccine has been offered to girls in the UK since 2008 and to boys since 2019.

“I urge parents to ensure their children are vaccinated. It’s the most effective form of protection and it is vital this happens before a person becomes sexually active.

“For those who are older and haven’t been vaccinated, it’s important to be mindful of the threat HPV poses.

“Being vigilant to any changes in and around the mouth is crucial.

“Remember, just because you don’t smoke or drink, it doesn’t mean you’re free from the risk of mouth cancer.”

5. Unhealthy diet

What you eat can influence your risk of the disease too, as eating a healthy diet can slash your risk.

Dr Carter noted: “A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients can substantially reduce the risk of developing mouth cancer.

“It’s important to incorporate these elements into your daily routine for better overall health.”

Research has shown that consuming fruits regularly can lower your risk by 48 per cent, while taking vitamin C supplements can reduce the risk by 24 per cent, the Oral Health Foundation added.

It claimed calcium supplements could also lower the risk by 36 per cent, while drinking four cups of coffee a day could reduce your risk by 39 per cent and drinking green tea by 20 per cent.

“By making small, consistent changes to your diet, you can significantly protect yourself against mouth cancer,” Dr Carter said.

“Stay vigilant about your health and make informed dietary choices to support your oral health.”