How to Recognize Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral cancers of the mouth and throat account for about 2% of all cancers diagnosed each year in the U.S. Early detection and timely treatment of oral cancers is important because it greatly increases the chances of survival. For example, the 5-year survival rate for those with oral cancer that hasn't spread is 83%, whereas it's only 32% once the cancer spreads to other parts of the body. Although your doctor and dentist are trained to detect oral cancers, recognizing the signs yourself may facilitate an earlier diagnosis and more timely treatment. The more aware you are, the better