Imagine sitting across from a doctor who tells you something you never saw coming: You have oral cancer. For many, this diagnosis comes as a shock.
Unlike some other cancers that make themselves known early, oral cancer can hide in plain sight, often mistaken for a stubborn sore or mild discomfort. But make no mistake—oral cancer is serious, and catching it early can mean the difference between life and death.
The Reality of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat, and while it’s not as widely discussed as breast or lung cancer, it is more common than you might think. In the U.S., nearly 58,500 people are diagnosed each year, with over 12,000 deaths annually. That means roughly one person dies every hour from this disease. In Southwest Florida, where we enjoy a vibrant outdoor lifestyle, risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and excessive sun exposure (which can cause lip cancer) contribute to the local impact.
One of the most alarming trends in oral cancer is the increasing number of cases linked to human papillomavirus (HPV)—a virus better known for its connection to cervical cancer. In fact, HPV-related oral cancers now account for more than 70% of throat cancers in the U.S., affecting men at a much higher rate than women. The good news? The HPV vaccine can significantly lower your risk.
The Importance of Early Detection
Unlike other cancers with widespread screening programs, oral cancer doesn’t have a routine test like a mammogram or colonoscopy. That’s why regular dental visits are essential—dentists are often the first line of defense, spotting suspicious changes before they become life-threatening. If you notice sores that don’t heal, red or white patches, difficulty swallowing, or a persistent sore throat, don’t ignore them. Early detection improves survival rates dramatically—up to 90% when caught in stage 1.
At Naples Cancer Advisors, we work with patients every day who are navigating the complex world of cancer treatment. We provide second opinions, genetic testing, clinical trial navigation, and precision oncology services—all at no cost. Our goal is to empower people with knowledge and access to the best possible care.
Treatment Options & Advances in Research
The standard treatments for oral cancer include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, but exciting new therapies are emerging. Immunotherapy, which boosts the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, has shown promise in treating HPV-related oral cancers. Targeted therapies, which attack specific cancer cells while leaving healthy ones unharmed, are also advancing rapidly.
Research into precision medicine—tailoring treatments to a person’s unique genetic makeup—is changing the game. Genetic testing helps doctors determine which therapies will work best for an individual patient, reducing unnecessary treatments and improving outcomes.
Prevention: What You Can Do Now
While we can’t change some risk factors like genetics, we have control over many lifestyle choices that impact oral cancer risk. As someone who spent years researching the role of food in cancer prevention, I can tell you that diet plays a significant role.
Studies have shown that certain foods—especially berries, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cauliflower), and green tea—contain compounds that help protect against oral cancer. Berries, in particular, are rich in ellagic acid and anthocyanins, which have been found to slow the growth of cancer cells.
Here are some simple steps you can take to lower your risk:
• Get screened—see your dentist regularly and check your mouth for changes.
• Quit smoking—tobacco use is the leading cause of oral cancer.
• Limit alcohol—heavy drinking increases risk, especially when combined with smoking.
• Eat a cancer-fighting diet—load up on berries,leafy greens, and antioxidant-rich foods.
• Consider the HPV vaccine—this can significantly reduce the risk of HPV-related oral cancers.
• Protect your lips—use SPF lip balm to shield against sun damage.
Final Thoughts
Oral cancer doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but it’s a disease that affects real people, right here in Southwest Florida. The good news is that we have more tools than ever to prevent, detect, and treat it. By staying informed, making smart lifestyle choices, and getting regular check-ups, we can save lives—maybe even your own.
If you or a loved one need guidance on cancer care, Naples Cancer Advisors is here to help. Early detection and knowledge are powerful weapons—let’s use them.
Lana Uhrig Bio
Lana Uhrig is the Executive Director of the Cincinnati Cancer Foundation which powers Naples Cancer Advisors and Cincinnati Cancer Advisors. Lana is an accomplished healthcare executive with extensive experience in healthcare operations, strategic planning and community engagement. She received her Ph.D. in Public Health from The Ohio State University where her research was focused on oral cancer prevention with the OSU College of Public Health, the James Cancer Hospital, and the department of Oral Carcinogenesis and Chemoprevention. She also holds an MBA and Doctorate of Community Leadership from Franklin University, and a Bachelor’s in nursing from Ohio University
Previously, Lana served as the Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer for Emory Healthcare-Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University and the Executive Director for Administration at the University of Cincinnati Cancer Institute. With over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field, she has been recognized as a subject matter expert in the development, implementation, and growth of cancer programs and non-profit start-ups and administration.
Arriving in South Florida in early 2023, Lana has been instrumental in opening Naples Cancer Advisors (NCA), a second location for the Cincinnati Cancer Foundation. Naples Cancer Advisors mission is to provide platinum-level consultation services including second opinions, referrals, clinical trial navigation, financial navigation, and precision oncology services such as genetic testing and counseling to Southwest Florida residents diagnosed with cancer. As a 501c3 non-profit organization powered by the generosity of private donors, we are proud to offer these services at no cost to the patient.
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