Oral sex is fuelling dramatic rise in mouth cancer cases – but what are the signs YOU could have the disease?

ORAL cancer cases have soared by two-thirds in the last 20 years – fuelled by more adventurous bedroom antics.

Rates in blokes under-50 have jumped by 67 per cent in the past two decades.

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And for older fellas it is up 59 per cent.

The disease, which kills around 2,400 Brits, is twice as common in men.

But researchers warn of a similar spike amongst women, with cases up 71 per cent.

The main driver of oral cancer – also known as mouth cancer - is still smoking.

But experts warn it can also be triggered by an infection transmitted during oral sex.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is now blamed for one on seven UK cases of cancer mouth cancer.

Up to 10 per cent of sexually active adults have the bug at any one time.

Hollywood star Michael Douglas’ throat cancer was caused by the virus.

Figures from Cancer Research UK show there were eight cases of oral cancer per 100,000 Brits 1994.

But by 2014 this rose to 13 per 100,000.

It’s worrying that oral cancer has become more common. HPV infections is playing a part in that for sure

Jessica KirbyCancer Research UK

The charity warns lifestyle is to blame for nine in 10 cases – with smoking, boozing, a lack of fruit and veg, and high numbers of sexual partners all risk factors.

Jessica Kirby, CRUK’s senior health information manager, said: “It’s worrying that oral cancer has become more common.

“And the rate of increase is greater in younger people. HPV infections is playing a part in that for sure.

“It’s important to get to know your body and what’s normal for you, to help spot the disease as early as possible."

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WHAT IS ORAL CANCER?

Oral cancer is an umbrella term which includes cancer of the lips, tongue, mouth, tonsils and the middle part of the throat.

There are around 11,500 new cases each year – with 10-year survival ranging from 19 to 59 per cent.

The HPV bug also causes cervical cancer, and a vaccination has been offered to girls aged 12-13 since 2008.

But some experts are calling for boys to get the jab as well, in a bid to slash their risk.

Russ Ladwa, from the British Dental Association, said: “Oral cancer is on the rise, yet half of adults are not seeing a dentist. Early detection is key.”

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WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF THE DISEASE?

1. Ulcers that don't heal

A broken area of the skin, an ulcer, is one of the most common symptoms of mouth cancer.

But, be warned, they aren't always painful.

2. Persistent mouth pain

The second most common sign of the disease is pain in the mouth that won't go away.

3. White or red patches in the mouth or throat

An abnormal-looking patch in the mouth could also be a sign of mouth cancer.

These patches could be areas of abnormal cells, which though they are not actually cancer, can develop into a tumour.

4. Difficulty swallowing

Mouth cancer can cause pain or a burning sensation when you chew or swallow food, according to Cancer Research UK.

Another sign is a feeling that food is sticking in your throat.

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5. Speech problems

People with mouth cancer may notice a change in their voice, be it quieter, more husky, or sound as if you have a permanent cold.

Other signs are slurring words or having trouble pronouncing some sounds.

6. A lump in the neck

As with almost all forms of cancer, a lump in the neck could indicate a tumour.

Swelling in one or more of the lymph nodes in the neck is a common sign of the disease.

7. Weight loss

This is another sign that is indicative of lots of forms of cancer.

With mouth cancer, weight loss may be caused by pain stopping you from eating.

Extreme weight loss is often a sign of very advanced forms of the disease.

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8. Bad breath

It's likely most people will be plagued by bad breath at some point in their lives.

But, when it is due to cancer, it's likely bad breath may be worse and happen more often.

9. Other symptoms

• a lump or thickening in the lip
• unusual bleeding or numbness in the mouth
• loose teeth for no apparent reason
• difficulty moving the jaw

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