According to the Oral Health Foundation, there were 10,825 new cases of mouth cancer diagnosed in the UK in 2024, up 38% in a decade and 133% compared with 20 years ago. The 10-year survival rate for mouth cancer is between 18% and 57%, depending on the location of the tumour and how early it is detected, the foundation said. Despite these figures, fewer than one in 10 people knew the major risk factors for the disease, the foundation added.
Warning signs of oral cancer that may be visible inside the mouth include ulcers that do not heal, unexplained bleeding, red or red and white patches, unusual lumps, or teeth that feel loose without obvious cause, according to Dr Deepa Chopra, a dentist at Whites Dental. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use and poor oral health increase the risk of oral cancer, Dr Andrej Bozic, an oral surgeon at Dentum, noted. The foundation also highlighted that early detection significantly improves survival chances, but many people are unaware of the symptoms.
The exact survival rate for early-stage versus late-stage oral cancer has not been specified, and it remains unclear which demographic groups are at higher risk. The specific symptoms that should prompt immediate medical attention beyond those listed have also not been detailed.