November is the month dedicated to the prevention of one of the most frequently overlooked, yet extremely dangerous cancers – oral cancer. During this time, doctors, dental students, and healthcare organizations across Poland are intensifying educational activities as part of the "Blue Lips" campaign, symbolized by blue-painted lips – a sign of oncological vigilance and concern for oral health. The "With a Smile Through Life" Oral Cancer Foundation, as every year, supports the campaign by educating the public about the importance of cancer prevention.
„"Blue Lips 2025" - get yourself checked before it's too late
The goal of this year's campaign is to encourage as many people as possible to perform regular oral self-examinations and to schedule regular checkups with specialists. These are simple actions that can save lives. Early diagnosis is crucial – statistics show that as many as 80% patients survive for five years if the cancer is detected in its early stages. Unfortunately, more than half of cases are still diagnosed too late, significantly worsening the prognosis.
Alarming statistics – the number of cases is increasing
According to data from the National Cancer Registry, the number of oral cancer cases in Poland is constantly increasing.
- In 2010, the disease was diagnosed in 2,709 men and 960 women.
- In 2022, these numbers increased to 3,176 men and 1,345 women.
Oral cancer already accounts for approximately 2.51% of all malignancies in Poland. It's a problem that requires greater attention from both society and the medical community.
Who is at risk?
People who are particularly at risk of developing oral cancer are:
- after the age of 40 (especially those who do not visit the dentist regularly),
- smoking cigarettes or using other nicotine products,
- abusing alcohol,
- with genetic load,
- infected with HPV.
The risk also increases in people who have lost their natural teeth and do not have regular oral check-ups.
Self-examination in less than a minute – the first step towards prevention
Regular oral self-examinations only take about a minute, but they can be crucial. What should we pay attention to?
- white or red spots with clear boundaries,
- non-healing canker sores and ulcers (over 2 weeks),
- thickenings, growths, nodules,
- numbness of the tongue or internal tissues,
- difficulty swallowing, speaking, pain when chewing.
If you experience any symptoms, consult a dentist or ENT specialist as soon as possible.
Prevention has power
As a reminder, oral cancer can be detected early and treated effectively. With vigilance, knowledge, and regular preventative care, November is the perfect time to take care of your smile and that of your loved ones for years to come.
– – –
Material prepared by "With a Smile Through Life" Foundation„.
The "With a Smile Through Life" Foundation has been operating continuously for nearly 15 years as a public benefit organization (OPP). Our mission is to promote oral cancer prevention and introduce oncological vigilance into everyday dental practice. educates, supports and organizes events related to preventive care and oral health. Ensuring the availability of screening tests and increasing patient awareness is particularly important to us, among others. through education on self-control of the oral mucosa. Our flagship project is Open Days, during which, in cooperation with dental offices throughout Poland, we offer free screening tests for oral cancer. To date, we have examined over 7,000 people, of whom 931 have been referred for further diagnosis. Over 130 dental practices have already participated in the campaign.
