How Seniors Can Reduce Their Risk of Oral Cancer
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and now is a great time to make sure that your senior parent is doing everything they can to reduce their risk of oral cancer. Oral cancer typically is diagnosed in seniors who are over the age of 65.
Seniors who smoke now or have smoked have a higher risk of oral cancer. If your senior parent smokes, April would be a great time for them to try quitting. Early detection is important, so if your senior parent has noticed any changes in their oral health they should get a medical checkup.
If your senior parent has trouble maintaining good oral hygiene like brushing their teeth, personal care at home can help. With personal care at home your senior parent will have a dedicated care provider in the home to help them with tasks like washing their face, brushing their teeth, and showering safely. A care provider can also check your senior parent for signs of oral cancer.
Some recommended things seniors can do that may reduce their risk of developing oral cancer include:
Quit Tobacco Use
Smoking and using chewing tobacco are two of the biggest causes of oral cancer. Tobacco contains harmful chemicals that damage cells in the mouth and throat.
If your senior parent smokes or uses tobacco, quitting is the best way to reduce their risk. Even if they have been smoking for many years, stopping now can still help prevent future health problems.
If quitting is difficult, they can talk to a doctor about support programs, nicotine patches, or other ways to help them stop.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Drinking too much alcohol increases the risk of oral cancer. Alcohol can irritate the mouth’s tissues and make them more vulnerable to harmful substances.
If your parent drinks alcohol, they should limit their intake. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends no more than one drink per day for older adults. Drinking water instead of alcohol, especially with meals, can help keep their mouth healthy.
Get Regular Dental Checkups
Seeing the dentist regularly is important for preventing oral cancer. Dentists can spot early signs of cancer, such as sores, red or white patches, or lumps in the mouth.
If caught early, oral cancer is easier to treat. Your senior parent should visit the dentist at least twice a year. If they notice any unusual changes in their mouth, they should tell their dentist right away. Regular cleanings also help prevent infections and other problems that can lead to more serious health issues.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A diet full of fruits and vegetables can help protect against oral cancer. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E help keep the mouth’s tissues strong and healthy.
Leafy greens, berries, carrots, and citrus fruits are great choices. Your parent should also avoid processed meats and foods high in sugar, as these can increase cancer risks. Drinking plenty of water helps wash away harmful bacteria and keeps the mouth hydrated.
Protect Lips from the Sun
Many people don’t realize that too much sun exposure can lead to lip cancer. Seniors who spend time outdoors should protect their lips by using a lip balm with sunscreen.
Wearing a wide-brimmed hat can also help shade the face from the sun’s harmful rays. If they notice any persistent sores or changes in the color of their lips, they should have a doctor check it out.
