Researchers do not yet know exactly why more people are developing oral cancer.
According to the Finnish Dental Society Apollonia, cited by the media outlet Iltalehti, the disease is now occurring more frequently than before.
Oral cancer primarily affects people over the age of 60, but international studies show that an increasing number of people under 45 are also being diagnosed with the disease, according to Iltalehti.
There is still limited knowledge about how products such as nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes may affect the risk.
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Known risk factors
Tobacco and alcohol are among the most significant risk factors. The risk becomes even greater when the two are used together.
Diet may also play a role. According to Apollonia, high consumption of sugar, refined carbohydrates, and fatty foods may increase the risk.
Poor oral hygiene and severe gum disease may also contribute.
Important to take action
Oral cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages. It is often found along the edge of the tongue and may spread to the lymph nodes in the neck.
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Changes in the mouth that do not disappear after two to three weeks should be examined.
The same applies to pain on one side of the mouth or tongue.
When the disease is detected at a later stage, treatment becomes more difficult. According to Apollonia, between 30 and 40 percent of oral cancer patients die from the disease.
Sources: Iltalehti and Apollonia.
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