A new study has shown that men have more than DOUBLE the risk of head and neck cancers compared to women.  This is because of  HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

HPV is a very common virus that lives on our skin or in skin like areas eg the mouth, genital areas and anus.  Usually there are no issues, our bodies protect us from the virus but in some people their immune systems can’t fight the virus and cancer can result

Around 10% of men had oral HPV compared to 3.6% of women which is the reason for their increased risk

Smoking and drinking are obvious risk factors for oral cancers but having oral HPV infection increases the risk by a whopping 50%

Now I don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun but the more partners you have, the more risk, that makes sense …BUT did you know ANY type of sex is can spread the infection?

The ‘good’ news is that Oral Cancer is one of the most successful to treat if spotted early.

If you have any ulcer or sore in your mouth that does not heal within 2-3 weeks see your dentist.  Every 6 months, see your dentist.  All your friends today, when you see them don’t just say “hi how are you?”  Say instead “hi how are you, when did you see the dentist last”  You could be the one that saves their life

There are areas of your mouth only your dentist can see.  As part of your regular checkup your dentist should do a full oral cancer screen…every time.  They will check not just your teeth but also the deep recesses of your mouth, tongue, palate, muscles and glands

So ladies, please spread the word as if the men in your life are anything like mine, they usually need major nudging to get them to see any medical people

For more info you can also visit  this website:  http://www.rdoc.org.uk/

 

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