A BOLTON surgeon has warned of a rising tide in the number of young people being diagnosed with oral cancer.

Smoking and heavy drinking, which are major causes of this kind of cancer, are both habits prevalent in young adults.

John Lowry, consultant maxofacial surgeon at the Royal Bolton Hospital, has urged greater vigilance among the young and others who are ignoring the warning signs of serious disease.

He believes there needs to be more widespread recognition of the disease which, in its most virulent form, kills about four people every day in the UK.

"It used to be that if someone was aware of an ulcer in their mouth for three weeks it would be of serious concern to us and a biopsy ought to be done.

"Today, depending on the appearance, it would be two weeks. Early detection is vital and dramatically increases a person's chances of survival.

"Certainly myself and my colleagues have noticed a growing incidence of this most distressing disease in young people, who are most susceptible to the influencing factors -- smoking and drinking."

Regular dental check-ups are vital in preventing oral cancer.

As part of the check, a dentist will look for reddish patches, white patches, sores, a lump or thickening of the tissues in the mouth and difficulties in swallowing.

It is often these warning signs which lead to early diagnosis and treatment.

Statistics released during Oral Cancer Awareness Week reveal that the average five year survival rate for oral cancer patients is 50pc, compared to 90pc for the better known prostate cancer.

"Although more people have heard of oral cancer there still seems to be a reluctance for people to seek medical help earlier," said Mr Lowry.

"The incidence of this disease nationally is fast approaching that of malignant melanoma (from too much exposure to the sun) which has rocketed in recent years and now outstrips the level of cervical cancer.

"Everyone needs to be vigilant and aware that cigarettes play a very real part in the incidence of this disease."

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