BDHF hails success of Mouth Cancer Action Month

The British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF) has expressed satisfaction with the number of people who took part in the most recent Mouth Cancer Action Month.

Running throughout November 2014, the campaign saw more than 1,000 people register their interest in the campaign, with hundreds of thousands of health professionals doing their bit to help educate the public about the disease.

Additionally, more than 1,000 people got involved with the Blue Lip Selfie campaign on social media, which the charity hopes will encourage more people to educate themselves on the signs and symptoms of the condition.

Tobacco use, drinking alcohol to excess, poor diet and transmission of the human papillomavirus have all been associated with an increased risk of developing mouth cancer.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the BDHF, said: "Ulcers that do not heal within three weeks, red and white patches, and unusual lumps or swellings in the mouth should make people take action. Our advice to everyone is extremely simple – if in doubt, get checked out."

Mouth Cancer Action Month is one of two annual campaigns run by the foundation. The other is National Smile Month, which takes place between May 19th and June 19th.