November marks Mouth Cancer Action Month, a crucial time for dental practices to spotlight the importance of early detection in fighting mouth cancer. Dental nurses play an essential role in driving this effort, and by getting your practice involved, you can make a real difference.
Why participate?
Mouth cancer cases in the UK have surged, with a staggering 103% increase over the last 20 years. Tragically, over 3,000 lives are lost annually, often due to late-stage diagnoses. Dental practices are uniquely positioned to raise awareness, educate patients, and encourage early detection, which can dramatically improve survival rates.
Get involved as a practice
- Display Educational Materials: Showcase posters and leaflets from the Mouth Cancer Foundation to engage patients on symptoms and risk factors.
- Host Awareness Events: Consider open days or “mouth cancer checks” as part of regular appointments to start conversations about mouth cancer.
- Join the 10 KM Awareness Walk from Home: Between now and November 30, encourage staff and patients to participate, whether walking individually or as a team. Capture photos and share them on social media, tagging @mouthcancer.
- Fundraise with JustGiving: Whether it’s a bake sale or sponsored run, all funds raised support vital research and awareness efforts.
Access Resources
The Mouth Cancer Foundation provides extensive free materials to support your practice’s involvement, equipping your team to educate patients and drive community awareness effectively.
Let’s make November a month of awareness and action! Visit the Mouth Cancer Foundation website here for resources and to learn more about supporting this essential initiative.
