Clan and NHS teams unite to raise awareness during Mouth Cancer Action Month
Clan Cancer Support is working alongside oral health teams from NHS Grampian, NHS Orkney and NHS Shetland throughout November to raise awareness of mouth cancer, promote good oral health, and help people recognise the early signs and symptoms of the disease.
The partnership will see a series of information and awareness sessions delivered across Clan wellbeing centres and community locations in Aberdeen, Mintlaw, Elgin, Orkney and Shetland, giving local communities the opportunity to access expert advice and learn more about mouth cancer and oral health.
Around 10,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with mouth cancer each year, with incidence rates continuing to rise. Early detection remains vital, giving people the best possible chance of successful treatment.
Throughout Mouth Cancer Action Month, representatives from Clan and NHS oral health teams will share information about the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer, the importance of regular dental examinations and self-checks, and the support available to those affected by cancer.
Kay Johnston, head of cancer support services at Clan said: “Working in partnership with NHS colleagues across Grampian, Orkney and Shetland allows us to bring important mouth cancer awareness messages directly into communities across the north of Scotland.”
The campaign will also highlight the steps people can take to reduce their risk of mouth cancer and improve their oral health, while helping to tackle common myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease through videos and information shared on social media.
As part of the campaign, partners will mark Blue Wednesday on 18 November, the flagship awareness day within Mouth Cancer Action Month. The awareness day encourages people to carry out a simple 45-second self-check and seek professional advice if they notice persistent mouth ulcers, red or white patches, unusual lumps, swelling or other changes in their mouth.
As part of Mouth Cancer Action Month, free information and awareness sessions will be held at Clan wellbeing centres across the north of Scotland. Members of the public are invited to drop in to learn more about oral health, mouth cancer awareness, risk factors, signs and symptoms, and the support available from Clan following a cancer diagnosis.
Read more on the Clan website here, https://www.clancancersupport.org/latest/clan-and-nhs-teams-unite-to-raise-awareness-during-mouth-cancer-action-month.