"Close to 53,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year. It will cause over 9,750 deaths, killing roughly 1 person per hour," according to the Oral Cancer Foundation. Drs. Alamzad and Yang of Jackson Heights, NY, are general dentists that provide cancer screenings to help prevent and/or diagnose patients.
More About Oral Cancer
People overlook oral cancer but it's more common than you may think. It is, however, easier to diagnose and start treating at earlier stages. Early detection increases survival rates by 80% or more, so testing saves lives.
So what is this test? A dental examination. That's right. It's that simple.
An oral cancer examination is fast and painless. Your Jackson Heights dentist observes any small changes in the mouth, lips, and tongue during this screening, which is primarily a visual and tactile examination. If your general dentist finds abnormalities, he/she retrieve a sample for further laboratory testing.
Who's at risk for oral cancer?
Contrary to what many think, oral cancer doesn't affect older people. Most people are above 40 but younger people are the fastest-growing segment of oral cancer patients because of the spread of sexually-transmitted Human Papilloma Virus.
Other risk factors include:
- Age (middle-aged or older)
- Long-time tobacco user
- Chronic exposure to the sun, which may result in skin cancer, like your lips
- Genetic factors
How to detect oral cancer early on?
- A thorough screening for oral cancer during your routine dental checkup every six months.
- A special light or dye to check suspect areas.
- A biopsy of abnormal tissue, like red or white patches or unusual sores.
Do you need to speak to a dentist?
Early diagnosis by way of screenings during regular dental checkups is one of the best defenses against oral cancer. To learn more about oral cancer and what your general dentist can do for you, call Drs. Alamzad or Yang of Jackson Heights, NY, at (718) 898-8080. Queens Professional Dental Care is here for you.
