Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers affect the mouth and throat. Estimates from the American Cancer Society predict around 59,660 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer and about 12,770 deaths. The Ontario Dental Association says around 5,400 Canadians will be diagnosed with oral cancers and 1,500 will die from them. No one can make themselves immune to cancer. However, recognition that certain lifestyle habits can increase a person’s risk for oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers may help them avoid behaviors that could increase their chances of being diagnosed with the disease.
• Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, pipes or e-cigarettes and using chewing tobacco or snuff can increase the risk for oral cancers. There is some evidence that newer nicotine pouches may increase the risk of oral cancer, but more research is needed.
• Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol use increases the risk for oral cancers. Alcohol abuse, defined as drinking more than 21 standard drinks in one week, is the second largest risk factor for the development of oral cancer, according to The Oral Cancer Foundation.
• Age: The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research says the risk of oral cancer increases with age, and most cases occur in people over the age of 40.
• HPV virus: Research indicates that approximately 70 percent of cases of oropharyngeal cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus, particularly HPV16. The HPV16 virus is detectable in the tumors of these cancers.
• Poor diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables has been linked to increased risk of oral cancers.
• Sun exposure: The American Cancer Society says oral cancers that begin on the lips can be the result of radiation from the sun.
Cancers of the mouth affect thousands of people across North America. Understanding which habits increase risk for oral cancers can help people do what’s necessary to potentially prevent their formation.
