Should Your Senior Parent Go Through Oral Cancer Screening?

Uncategorized  |  May 11, 2019

We do not often think about oral cancer, however, the older members of our population should consider oral cancer screening mandatory. This year, some 5,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer. Many of those individuals will be over the age of 65 as advanced age is a risk factor for oral cancer.

Some statistics:

The large majority, or 65 percent, of individuals diagnosed with oral cancer, will live beyond five years.

When oral cancer is detected early with proper screenings, the number of individuals that will live past five years after diagnosis goes up to 85 percent.

If your loved one has complained about symptoms you think may be indicative of cancer, the time to act is now. Read on and get your loved one the help they need.

What is oral cancer?

When we talk about oral cancer, we are usually referring to cancers occurring on the floor and roof of the mouth. It can also occur in the teeth, gums, lips, cheeks, the front of the tongue, the middle of the throat and the back of the mouth.

Are early signs of oral cancer noticeable?

Oral cancer does cause noticeable changes in the mouth. They are, however, often overlooked by seniors. Signs include soreness, irritation, trouble moving mouth or jaw, thick patches of skin, tenderness, numbness, and issues with swallowing or chewing.

What does treatment look like?

Very often, treatment involves surgery, radiation treatment, chemotherapy, and medication. If your loved one is or has been diagnosed with oral cancer, they may receive any one of these treatments or a combination.

How We Can Help

Comfort Keepers is a home care agency that operates internationally. We have over two decades of experience and are locally owned and operated. We have helped thousands of individuals in Edmonton get their lives back on track. In doing so, we have helped them develop healthy habits like going for regular oral cancer screenings.

To find out more about how we can help improve your loved one’s life and ensure their lasting independence, health, and safety, please contact us a call today!

Share This Post: