Heavy Drinking Connected to Oral Cancer

Oral cancer risk factors have long been linked with smoking, HPV, gender, and age, however there is another way to higher your chances. Heavy drinking has long been attributed to the cause of liver cancer; yet, research has shown that it can be linked to oral cancer as well.

Oral cancer affects thousands of individuals in the United States. Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, such as the lips, tongue, and tonsils. It is important to contact your general dentistry specialist if any unusual symptoms occur, such as a sore that won’t heal or a lump.  Early detection is important to increase your chances of a full recovery.

Tobacco is one of the main culprits when it comes to oral cancer; however, there are other risky behaviors that can higher your chances. The combination of tobacco and alcohol causes a bigger risk, since both work together to damage the cells of the body. People who smoke and drink are up to fifty times more likely to develop cancer than people who abstain from the activity.  Men have a higher risk of getting oral cancer than women.  This is attributed to the fact that men are more likely to consume alcohol and tobacco at higher doses and over a longer period of time.

It’s important to limit your alcohol intake, whether it’s wine or liquor. Even drinking small amounts can be risky, as some drinks may have a higher percentage of alcohol than others. Check up with your restorative dentistry specialist annually and reduce your consumption of alcohol, in order to lower your chances of developing oral cancer.

Source: Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist
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