13 April 2021

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OCF: April marks Oral Care Awareness Month

Katherine E. Pfaff

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Oral cancer is linked to poor outcomes, including 43% mortality at 5 years, impairment with speaking, eating, and disease which disfigures the face. However, if caught and treated early, many of these can be avoided. April 2021 is the 22nd annual Oral Care Awareness Month, an effort by the Oral Cancer Foundation, which advocates screening in order to detect disease early. OCF's"Check Your Mout" initiative asks the watchful for symptoms and sees a dental professional if any symptoms occur. Symptoms include sores that do not heal in 2 weeks, discolorations, bleeding easily with touch, lump, hardness, or raised tissue, among other symptoms. 

During April, dental associations seek increasing recognition of oral and oropharyngeal cancers and typically offer free screenings for anyone interested. Various organizations join OCF during April, including the Academy of General Dentistry Foundation, the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Academy of Oral Medicine, American Academy of Periodontology, American College of Prosthodontics, American Dental Hygienists' Association, and California Dental Hygienists' Association. 

Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/april-is-oral-cancer-awareness-month-301255512.html