Figures reported today show how rates of oral cancer have soared this century, driven by changing lifestyles.
In the last 20 years there has been a 68% increase in rates – with a 71% increase in incidence among women.
About 640 men under the age of 50 a year are now diagnosed with the disease compared with 340 two decades ago, according to Cancer Research UK.
Among women in the same age group, some 300 a year are diagnosed compared with 160 two decades ago.
In total about 7,240 cases a year are diagnosed compared with 3,700 in the mid-1990s.
The figures were released for Mouth Cancer Action Month.
Experts say smoking is linked to 65% of cases while poor diet and HPV infection play a key role.
Jessica Kirby, from Cancer Research, said: “It’s worrying that oral cancer has become more common. It’s important to get to know your body and what’s normal for you, to help spot the disease as early as possible. An ulcer or sore in your mouth or tongue that won’t go away, a lump on your lip or in your mouth, a red or red and white patch in your mouth or an unexplained lump in your neck are all things to look out for.
“Healthy lifestyles can help reduce the risk of developing the disease in the first place. Not smoking, drinking less alcohol and eating plenty of fruit and vegetables can all help to cut our risk of mouth cancer."
She added: "HPV vaccination could help protect against oral HPV infections, and it can prevent a range of cancers associated with the HPV virus, so it’s a good idea to get the vaccine if you are offered it.”
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