Roughly 29,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancers each year in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute. The mouth, tongue, lips, larynx and oropharynx (the part of the throat at the back of the mouth) all can develop cancers.

Approximately 70 to 80 percent of all oral cancer cases are associated with smoking and other tobacco use, with men being twice as likely to be affected. Heavy alcohol use also is a risk factor for developing various oral cancers. Other risks include poor dental and oral hygiene and chronic irritations

The following are some prevention steps to decrease your chances of developing oral cancers.

• Minimize or avoid smoking or other tobacco use.
• Minimize or avoid alcohol use.
• Practice good oral hygiene.
• Have dental problems corrected.
• Have the soft tissue of the mouth examined once a year. Many oral cancers are discovered by routine dental examination.

Symptoms

As with other diseases, the symptoms of oral cancers may be ignored for too long. Approximately 25 percent of people with oral cancers will die due to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Oral cancers (oral and maxillofacial) may cause difficulties and problems with speech, chewing or swallowing. Other oral cancer symptoms may include skin lesions lumps or ulcers on the tongue, lip or mouth areas; tongue problems; mouth sores and abnormal taste.

Contact your dentist or physician if you experience any of these symptoms.

Treatment

There are various treatments for oral cancers depending on the specific area that has developed it. Treatments can include surgical excision, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and surgery, if needed.

For more information, visit the American Cancer Society or National Cancer Institute.