Everything You Need to Know About Lip Cancer
While cancer can certainly be a scary word, education is key. As your partner in oral health, your dentist is here to help you understand the warning signs of lip cancer, which is a common type of mouth cancer. When caught early, this disease is very curable, so it’s always good to know what to look out for.
Symptoms of Lip Cancer
Lip cancer can come with a variety of symptoms, with some of the most common being:
- Open sores near or on the lips
- White skin that resembles a scar
- Growths or lumps that look like warts
- Any visible changes in the appearance of the lips
A few of the common causes of lip cancer include tobacco use, alcohol use, and sun exposure. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly one third of all lip cancers can be traced back to too much sun exposure.
Reducing Your Risk
The good news is that by limiting your exposure to all three of the above, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing mouth cancers.
Whenever you’re outside, apply a chapstick with SPF sunscreen. It’s always a great idea to keep a balm in your handbag or pocket.
Studies have found that people who consume four or more alcoholic beverages in a day can be twice as likely to develop lip cancer. Reducing your alcohol intake is a great way to limit your chances.
Tobacco products have been long known to cause various types of oral cancer. If you smoke and have a family history of oral cancers, consider kicking the habit.
Book a Visit With Us
If you’re ever concerned with new growths or changes in your mouth, book a visit with your dentist to get evaluated.
