 Many are unaware alcohol misuse is linked to mouth cancer |
Mouth cancer rates could soar because young people are smoking and drinking more, experts have warned. A survey of 200 dentists by private dental company Denplan found 85% believe more cases will be seen among 18 to 30-year-olds.
But under a third of 1,000 people questioned knew alcohol was a major risk factor for the disease.
There are around 4,300 new cases of mouth cancer each year. Around 1,700 die from the condition.
Experts estimate that excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of mouth cancer by up to 30 times. The research is published ahead of Mouth Cancer Awareness Week, which runs from the 7th to the 13th of November.
Risks 'ignored'
Just over half of the dentists surveyed said they feared that cannabis declassification would add to the number of people being struck by mouth cancer.
Dentists are trained to spot early signs of mouth cancer, such as sores, white patches or lumps in the mouth or an ulcer that does not heal, which the patient may not be aware of.
However, there are fears problems accessing NHS dental care many mean many people are not going for check-ups on a regular basis.
Dr Henry Clover, dental advisor at Denplan, said: "It is deeply worrying that the risks associated with mouth cancer are either extremely poorly publicised or just plain ignored, especially with regards to alcohol.
"There is also a risk that cannabis declassification and the lifestyle of the 18-30 age group could increase prevalence in the future."
He added: "Alcohol is a carcinogen, a cancer-causing substance, and dentists overwhelmingly think men and women are lining up for problems including mouth cancer if they continue as they are."
Early detection plays a major part in surviving mouth cancer, with the chances of survival increase from 50% to 90% if it is treated fast enough.
Dr Julie Sharp, senior science information officer for Cancer Research UK, said: "Most cases of mouth cancer could be completely avoided.
"Three-quarters of mouth cancers occur in people who smoke or chew tobacco and drink too much alcohol.
"This survey shows that while most people are aware of the dangers of smoking, the majority are unaware of the effects of alcohol in causing mouth cancer.
"However, mouth cancer that is detected early can be successfully treated. This is why it's important to go for regular dental check-ups, especially if you smoke or chew tobacco and drink alcohol."
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Most cases of mouth cancer could be completely avoided 
