Becoming an Oral Cancer Champion: A Definitive Guide to Prevention, Early Detection, and Advocacy

Oral cancer, a formidable and often devastating disease, casts a long shadow over global health. While its statistics can seem daunting, the power to combat it lies within each of us. Becoming an “Oral Cancer Champion” isn’t merely about personal protection; it’s about embodying a proactive spirit that extends to your community, empowering others to understand, prevent, detect, and ultimately survive this often-overlooked cancer. This in-depth guide will equip you with the knowledge, strategies, and actionable steps to transform you into a true champion in the fight against oral cancer.

The Silent Threat: Understanding Oral Cancer

Before we champion the cause, we must deeply understand the adversary. Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, is a type of head and neck cancer that can develop in any part of the oral cavity. This includes the lips, tongue (the most common site), floor of the mouth, inner lining of the cheeks, gums, and the hard or soft palate. It can also extend to the oropharynx, the part of the throat behind the mouth.

The insidious nature of oral cancer often lies in its early asymptomatic stages. Many individuals are unaware of its presence until it has progressed, making early detection critically important for successful treatment and improved prognosis.

The Biology of Betrayal: How Oral Cancer Develops

At its core, cancer is uncontrolled cell growth. In oral cancer, this begins when cells in the mouth or throat undergo genetic mutations. These mutations can be caused by various factors, leading to the formation of abnormal cells that multiply rapidly, forming tumors. If left unchecked, these cancerous cells can invade surrounding tissues and, in advanced stages, metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes in the neck, lungs, or liver.

The Faces of Oral Cancer: Different Types and Their Locations

While often grouped under the umbrella of “oral cancer,” several distinct types exist, each with its own characteristics:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): By far the most common type, accounting for over 90% of oral cancers. It originates in the flat, thin cells (squamous cells) that line the mouth and throat. SCC can appear as an ulcer, a persistent sore, a red or white patch, or a lump.

• Verrucous Carcinoma: A less aggressive variant of SCC, often characterized by a warty, cauliflower-like appearance. While it rarely metastasizes, it can be locally destructive.

• Minor Salivary Gland Cancers: These rare cancers develop in the small salivary glands found throughout the mouth. Types include mucoepidermoid carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma.

• Lymphoma: While not originating from the oral cavity’s lining, lymphomas can sometimes manifest in the tonsils or base of the tongue, presenting as a swelling or mass.

• Melanoma: Extremely rare in the mouth, oral melanoma originates from pigment-producing cells and can appear as a dark, discolored patch.

Understanding these distinctions isn’t just academic; it informs diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies, underscoring the importance of a precise diagnosis.

Pillar One: Unyielding Prevention – Building an Impenetrable Shield

The most effective fight against any disease begins with prevention. For oral cancer, this means meticulously addressing the risk factors that contribute to its development. Becoming an Oral Cancer Champion necessitates an unwavering commitment to these preventative measures, both for yourself and as a model for others.

Deciphering the Risk Factors: What Increases Your Vulnerability?

Understanding what puts you at risk is the first step toward mitigation. The primary culprits behind oral cancer are well-documented:

1. Tobacco in All Forms: This is the single most significant risk factor. Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff, and even passive smoke exposure dramatically increase the risk. The chemicals in tobacco damage DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
   • Concrete Example: A study found that individuals who smoke heavily for many years are up to 10 times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers. Smokeless tobacco users are also at a significantly elevated risk, particularly for cancers of the cheeks, gums, and lips.
2. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy and prolonged alcohol use is another major contributor. Alcohol irritates the cells in the mouth and throat, making them more susceptible to damage from other carcinogens. The combination of tobacco and alcohol creates a synergistic effect, exponentially increasing the risk – far more than either factor alone.
   • Concrete Example: Someone who both smokes and drinks heavily can have a risk of oral cancer that is 30 times higher than someone who does neither. This staggering statistic underscores the danger of combined habits.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Specific high-risk strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, are increasingly recognized as a significant cause of oral and oropharyngeal cancers, especially in younger, non-smoking, non-drinking individuals. HPV is primarily transmitted through oral sexual contact.
   • Concrete Example: The incidence of HPV-related oral cancers, particularly those at the base of the tongue and in the tonsils, has risen dramatically in recent decades, making HPV vaccination a critical preventative measure.
4. Excessive Sun Exposure (for Lip Cancer): Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a primary cause of lip cancer, particularly on the lower lip.
   • Concrete Example: Farmers, construction workers, and others with outdoor occupations who do not protect their lips are at a heightened risk. Consider the distinct line where sun-damaged lip tissue meets protected tissue.
5. Poor Nutrition/Dietary Deficiencies: A diet lacking in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can weaken the body’s natural defenses against cancer-causing agents. While not a direct cause, it can be a contributing factor.
   • Concrete Example: Individuals whose diets are consistently deficient in vitamins A, C, and E, often found in brightly colored produce, may have a diminished ability to repair cellular damage.
6. Weakened Immune System: People with compromised immune systems (e.g., organ transplant recipients on immunosuppressants, individuals with HIV/AIDS) are more susceptible to various cancers, including some oral cancers.

7. Genetic Predisposition/Family History: While less common than environmental factors, a family history of oral cancer or certain genetic syndromes can slightly increase an individual’s risk.

Actionable Prevention Strategies: Fortifying Your Defenses

Armed with knowledge of risk factors, we can implement robust prevention strategies:

1. Tobacco Cessation: The Ultimate Act of Prevention:
   • Actionable Explanation: Quitting tobacco in all its forms is the single most impactful step you can take. This isn’t just about reducing risk; it’s about reversing damage. Even after years of use, quitting significantly lowers your oral cancer risk over time.

   • Concrete Example: If you currently smoke, seek support from your doctor, local health department, or cessation programs (e.g., nicotine replacement therapy, counseling). If you chew tobacco, switch to healthier alternatives and gradually reduce your dependence. Visualize the positive changes in your mouth within weeks of quitting – improved gum health, reduced staining, and a healthier oral microbiome.

2. Moderating Alcohol Intake:

   • Actionable Explanation: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For men, this generally means no more than two drinks per day; for women, no more than one. Binge drinking or daily heavy consumption should be avoided entirely.

   • Concrete Example: Instead of unwinding with multiple alcoholic beverages every night, consider substituting some with sparkling water, herbal tea, or non-alcoholic mocktails. When at social gatherings, alternate alcoholic drinks with water to pace yourself.

3. HPV Vaccination: A Shield for the Future:

   • Actionable Explanation: For eligible individuals, HPV vaccination is a powerful tool to prevent HPV-related cancers, including those of the oral cavity and oropharynx. The vaccine is most effective when administered before sexual activity begins, typically in pre-teens and teenagers, but catch-up vaccination is available for young adults.

   • Concrete Example: Discuss HPV vaccination with your pediatrician or family doctor for your children. If you are a young adult, inquire about your eligibility for catch-up vaccination, as it can still provide significant protection.

4. Sun Protection for Your Lips:

   • Actionable Explanation: Just as you protect your skin, protect your lips from harmful UV rays. Use lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher, and wear wide-brimmed hats when spending extended time outdoors.

   • Concrete Example: Make applying SPF lip balm a routine part of your morning, especially before outdoor activities like gardening, hiking, or beach trips. Reapply frequently, especially after eating or drinking.

5. Nutrient-Rich Diet:

   • Actionable Explanation: Adopt a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and support a healthy immune system.

   • Concrete Example: Aim for at least 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Incorporate leafy greens, berries, citrus fruits, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower into your meals. Swap refined grains for whole-wheat bread, brown rice, and oats.

6. Regular Dental Check-ups and Oral Hygiene:

   • Actionable Explanation: While not a direct preventative measure against cancer development, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and having regular dental check-ups can help identify precancerous lesions or early-stage cancers, as dentists are trained to spot abnormalities.

   • Concrete Example: Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, floss daily, and schedule a professional dental cleaning and check-up every six months. During these visits, your dentist will perform a visual and tactile oral cancer screening.

Pillar Two: Vigilant Early Detection – The Power of Prompt Action

Even with the most rigorous prevention, some oral cancers can still develop. This is where early detection becomes your superpower. The difference between a stage I oral cancer and a stage IV can be the difference between a minor procedure and life-altering surgery, extensive radiation, or chemotherapy, and ultimately, survival rates.

Recognizing the Red Flags: What to Look For and Feel For

Becoming an Oral Cancer Champion means being meticulously aware of your own oral cavity and educating others on the signs and symptoms. Many oral cancer signs can mimic common, benign conditions, but persistence is the key differentiator. If any of these signs last for more than two weeks, it warrants immediate professional evaluation.

1. Persistent Sore, Ulcer, or Irritation:
   • Actionable Explanation: This is the most common early sign. Look for any sore, canker sore, or irritation on the lips, gums, tongue, or inside of the mouth that does not heal within two weeks. Unlike a typical canker sore, a cancerous lesion often doesn’t have a distinct border and may appear flattened or raised.

   • Concrete Example: If you have a sore on your tongue that you initially dismissed as a bite, but it’s still there and perhaps even growing after 14 days, don’t wait. Schedule an urgent appointment with your dentist or an oral surgeon.

2. Red or White Patches (Leukoplakia and Erythroplakia):

   • Actionable Explanation:
     • Leukoplakia: White or grayish patches that cannot be scraped away. These are often precancerous (dysplastic) and indicate an increased risk of developing cancer.

     • Erythroplakia: Red, velvety patches that are often flat or slightly depressed. These are much less common but have a higher malignant potential than leukoplakia.

   • Concrete Example: While inspecting your mouth, if you notice a persistent white patch on your cheek lining that feels slightly rough and doesn’t rub off with brushing, it needs to be examined. Similarly, any unexplained vivid red patch demands immediate attention.

3. Lump, Thickening, or Swelling:

   • Actionable Explanation: Palpate your neck, cheeks, and floor of your mouth regularly. Any new lump, thickening, or swelling in the mouth, throat, or neck, particularly if it’s painless, should be investigated.

   • Concrete Example: While shaving or applying makeup, routinely feel for any new, firm lumps under your jawline or in your neck. Inside your mouth, use your fingers to feel for any induration or firmness in areas that previously felt soft and pliable.

4. Persistent Sore Throat, Hoarseness, or Difficulty Swallowing/Chewing:

   • Actionable Explanation: While often benign, persistent symptoms in the throat, especially if they are unilateral (on one side), warrant concern. This could indicate a cancer in the back of the tongue, tonsils, or oropharynx.

   • Concrete Example: If you’ve had a “sore throat” that won’t go away for several weeks, or if you consistently find yourself clearing your throat, or experiencing a sensation of food getting stuck, don’t dismiss it as just allergies or a cold.

5. Numbness or Pain/Tenderness in the Face, Neck, or Mouth:

   • Actionable Explanation: Persistent numbness in the tongue, lip, or any part of the mouth without an obvious dental cause (like recent dental work) can be a red flag. Unexplained pain or tenderness, even if mild, that doesn’t resolve is also concerning.

   • Concrete Example: If you wake up with a feeling of persistent “pins and needles” or a dull ache in one side of your tongue that lasts for days, and there’s no obvious injury, it needs evaluation.

6. Bleeding in the Mouth:

   • Actionable Explanation: Unexplained bleeding from the mouth or gums that isn’t due to injury, aggressive brushing, or gum disease can be a symptom.

   • Concrete Example: If you notice blood in your saliva regularly when you wake up, and your dentist has ruled out gum disease, it’s a symptom that requires further investigation.

7. Change in Denture Fit:

   • Actionable Explanation: If dentures suddenly feel loose or uncomfortable, it could indicate changes in the underlying gum or bone structure due to a growth.

   • Concrete Example: If your previously well-fitting dentures suddenly start to rub or shift excessively, don’t simply adjust to it. Have your dentist examine your mouth for any changes.

8. Weight Loss:

   • Actionable Explanation: Unexplained, significant weight loss, especially when accompanied by other oral symptoms, can be a sign of advanced cancer.

The Self-Examination Imperative: Becoming Your Own First Line of Defense

As an Oral Cancer Champion, you empower yourself and others to perform regular oral self-examinations. This simple yet powerful habit can detect changes before they become more serious.

How to Perform a Comprehensive Oral Self-Examination (Monthly):

1. Preparation: Stand in front of a well-lit mirror. Remove any dentures or removable dental appliances.

2. Visual Inspection:

   • Lips: Pull your lips apart and look for any color changes, sores, or lumps on the inner and outer surfaces.

   • Cheeks: Gently pull your cheek out with your finger and thumb. Look at the inside surface for red or white patches, ulcers, or lumps. Repeat on the other side.

   • Gums: Examine your gums for any changes in color, swelling, or lumps.

   • Tongue (Top and Sides): Stick out your tongue. Look at the top surface for any changes. Then, gently grasp the tip of your tongue with gauze or a paper towel and pull it to one side, inspecting the side of your tongue. Repeat for the other side.

   • Tongue (Underside) and Floor of Mouth: Lift your tongue to the roof of your mouth. Look at the underside of your tongue and the floor of your mouth for any red or white patches, lumps, or ulcers. This is a common site for oral cancer.

   • Hard and Soft Palate: Tilt your head back and open wide. Look at the roof of your mouth (hard and soft palate) for any abnormalities.

   • Tonsils/Back of Throat: If you can see them, briefly examine your tonsils and the back of your throat for any changes.

3. Tactile Examination (Feeling):

   • Lips: Gently feel your lips for any lumps, bumps, or tender areas.

   • Cheeks: Gently press your fingers along the inside of your cheeks to feel for any unusual thickening or lumps.

   • Floor of Mouth: Place one finger on the floor of your mouth and another finger under your chin in the same area. Gently press and feel for any lumps or tenderness.

   • Neck and Jaw: Gently feel your neck and under your jawline for any swollen lymph nodes (lumps). Lymph nodes that are cancerous are often firm, painless, and don’t move easily.

What to Do if You Find Something: If you discover any of these warning signs that persist for more than two weeks, don’t panic, but don’t delay. Schedule an immediate appointment with your dentist, oral surgeon, or physician. Emphasize your concern about oral cancer.

Professional Oral Cancer Screenings: Your Dental Team’s Role

Your dentist and dental hygienist are critical partners in early detection. They perform a professional oral cancer screening at every regular check-up.

What a Professional Screening Involves:

• Visual Examination: The dental professional will thoroughly examine your face, neck, lips, and entire oral cavity, including hard-to-see areas like the back of your tongue and tonsil area.

• Palpation: They will feel for lumps or abnormalities in your neck, jaw, and inside your mouth.

• Advanced Screening Technologies (Optional): Some dental practices use adjunctive screening tools like:

  • Velscope/Identafi: These devices use specialized light to highlight suspicious tissues that may not be visible to the naked eye. Abnormal tissues reflect light differently.

  • Toluidine Blue Dye: A rinse that stains abnormal cells blue, making them more visible.

  • Brush Biopsy: If a suspicious area is found, a small brush can be used to collect cells for microscopic examination. This is a non-invasive way to get an initial indication of suspicious cells before a surgical biopsy.

Actionable Advice: Don’t skip your regular dental appointments. During your visit, actively ask your dental professional about their oral cancer screening process. Voice any concerns you have about specific areas in your mouth, even if they seem minor.

Pillar Three: Resilient Treatment and Recovery – Navigating the Journey

Should an oral cancer diagnosis occur, an Oral Cancer Champion understands the treatment landscape and embraces the recovery journey with resilience and informed decision-making. This section provides a foundational understanding without delving into overly medical specifics.

The Diagnostic Journey: From Suspicion to Confirmation

When a suspicious lesion is identified, further diagnostic steps are taken:

1. Biopsy: This is the definitive diagnostic tool. A small tissue sample is surgically removed from the suspicious area and sent to a pathologist for microscopic examination. The biopsy confirms the presence of cancer, determines its type, and assesses its aggressiveness.

2. Imaging Scans: If cancer is confirmed, imaging tests like CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, or ultrasound may be performed to determine the extent of the cancer (staging) – whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Treatment Modalities: A Multifaceted Approach

Treatment for oral cancer is highly individualized and depends on the location, size, type, and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. A multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oral surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, dentists, speech therapists, nutritionists, and psychologists, typically collaborate on the treatment plan.

Common treatment modalities include:

1. Surgery: Often the primary treatment, especially for early-stage cancers. The goal is to surgically remove the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue around it. Depending on the size and location, this can range from a minor excision to a more extensive procedure involving removal of parts of the tongue, jawbone, or other oral structures. Lymph nodes in the neck may also be removed (neck dissection) if there’s a risk of spread.

2. Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays (like X-rays or protons) to kill cancer cells. It can be used as a primary treatment for small tumors, after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells (adjuvant therapy), or to alleviate symptoms in advanced cases.

3. Chemotherapy: Uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It’s often used in combination with radiation therapy (chemoradiation) for more advanced cancers, or to treat metastatic disease.

4. Targeted Therapy: Newer drugs that specifically target certain molecules involved in cancer growth, often with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

5. Immunotherapy: Harnesses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. These drugs help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.

The Road to Recovery: Beyond Treatment

Recovery from oral cancer treatment can be a long and challenging journey, often involving physical, emotional, and psychological adjustments. An Oral Cancer Champion supports those in recovery by understanding these challenges:

• Speech and Swallowing Rehabilitation: Surgery and radiation can impact the ability to speak, chew, and swallow. Speech-language pathologists play a crucial role in helping patients regain these functions.

• Nutritional Support: Difficulty eating can lead to weight loss and malnutrition. Nutritionists help develop strategies, including special diets or feeding tubes, to ensure adequate nourishment.

• Dental and Prosthetic Rehabilitation: Patients may require dental implants, dentures, or prosthetic devices to restore oral function and appearance.

• Psychological Support: The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Counseling, support groups, and psychological therapy are vital for coping with anxiety, depression, and body image changes.

• Long-Term Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor for recurrence and manage long-term side effects.

Actionable Advice for Supporting Survivors: If you know someone undergoing oral cancer treatment or in recovery, offer practical support (e.g., help with meals, transportation to appointments) and empathetic listening. Encourage them to utilize all available support services.

Pillar Four: Dynamic Advocacy – Amplifying the Message

Becoming an Oral Cancer Champion extends beyond personal health. It involves becoming a vocal advocate, raising awareness, challenging misconceptions, and inspiring action within your community and beyond. This is where your champion spirit truly shines.

Spreading Awareness: Being a Voice for the Vulnerable

Many people remain unaware of oral cancer risks and early signs. Your advocacy can change this.

1. Educate Your Inner Circle:
   • Actionable Explanation: Start with your family, friends, and colleagues. Share the information you’ve learned in a clear, non-alarming way.

   • Concrete Example: During a casual conversation, mention the importance of oral self-exams. “Hey, did you know that checking your mouth regularly can spot early signs of oral cancer? It only takes a few minutes once a month.” Share the key risk factors when appropriate, like when someone lights up a cigarette.

2. Leverage Social Media (Responsibly):

   • Actionable Explanation: Use your social media platforms to share accurate information from reputable health organizations (without external links in this output). Post infographics about risk factors, early signs, or the importance of dental check-ups.

   • Concrete Example: Create a short, engaging post: “Did you know that persistent mouth sores for more than 2 weeks could be a sign of oral cancer? Early detection saves lives! #OralCancerAwareness #CheckYourMouth.” Avoid sensationalism or fear-mongering.

3. Community Outreach and Presentations:

   • Actionable Explanation: Offer to give short presentations at community centers, schools (age-appropriate content), workplaces, or local clubs. Keep the information concise, engaging, and action-oriented.

   • Concrete Example: Prepare a 15-minute presentation titled “Your Mouth Matters: Protecting Yourself from Oral Cancer” for your local Rotary Club. Include visuals of healthy mouths vs. signs of concern (without graphic imagery), and a quick demonstration of a self-exam.

4. Support Awareness Campaigns:

   • Actionable Explanation: Participate in national or local oral cancer awareness month activities (e.g., April in some regions). Share their materials and amplify their messages.

   • Concrete Example: During Oral Cancer Awareness Month, participate in a local 5K run/walk that benefits an oral cancer foundation. Wear a relevant t-shirt or share your personal commitment to the cause.

Challenging Misconceptions: Dispelling the Myths

Oral cancer is often misunderstood. Champions dispel common myths that can prevent people from seeking help.

• Myth 1: “Only smokers and heavy drinkers get oral cancer.”
  • Champion’s Response: “While tobacco and alcohol are major risk factors, oral cancer can affect anyone. HPV infection is a growing cause, especially in younger people who don’t smoke or drink. Sun exposure can cause lip cancer, and sometimes, there’s no clear cause. Everyone needs to be aware of the signs.”
• Myth 2: “Oral cancer is rare.”
  • Champion’s Response: “Oral cancer is more common than many people realize. It accounts for a significant portion of all cancers. Early detection is key because the survival rate drops significantly once it spreads.”
• Myth 3: “If it doesn’t hurt, it’s not cancer.”
  • Champion’s Response: “This is a dangerous misconception. Many early oral cancers are painless. That’s why regular self-exams and professional screenings are so important – you’re looking for changes, not just pain.”
• Myth 4: “My dentist will tell me if something’s wrong.”
  • Champion’s Response: “Your dentist is your partner! They do perform screenings. But you should also know what to look for yourself, and if you notice anything between visits, don’t wait. Be proactive and tell your dentist your concerns immediately.”

Advocating for Policy and Support: Driving Systemic Change

Beyond individual awareness, a true champion pushes for broader systemic improvements.

1. Support Public Health Initiatives:
   • Actionable Explanation: Advocate for public health campaigns that educate about oral cancer risks, especially tobacco cessation programs and HPV vaccination initiatives.

   • Concrete Example: Write a letter to your local government representative expressing support for increased funding for HPV vaccination programs in schools or for accessible tobacco cessation resources in underserved communities.

2. Promote Research and Funding:

   • Actionable Explanation: Support organizations that fund oral cancer research for better treatments, diagnostics, and prevention strategies.

   • Concrete Example: Participate in fundraising events for oral cancer research foundations or make a direct donation. Share information about innovative research breakthroughs.

3. Championing Patient Rights and Access to Care:

   • Actionable Explanation: Advocate for policies that ensure access to quality dental care and specialized cancer treatment for all, regardless of socioeconomic status.

   • Concrete Example: If you encounter barriers to care for yourself or others, document them and share them with relevant patient advocacy groups or healthcare policy makers.

The Champion’s Mindset: Cultivating Resilience and Hope

Becoming an Oral Cancer Champion isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about adopting a mindset of proactive health, empathy, and unwavering commitment.

• Be Proactive, Not Reactive: Don’t wait for symptoms. Actively prevent and screen.

• Empower, Don’t Scare: Present information in a way that encourages action, not fear. Focus on the positive impact of prevention and early detection.

• Lead by Example: Your commitment to a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups is the most powerful form of advocacy.

• Embrace Continuous Learning: The field of oral cancer research is always evolving. Stay informed about new developments.

• Practice Compassion: For those affected by oral cancer, the journey can be profoundly difficult. Offer genuine empathy and support.

Conclusion: Your Role in a Healthier Future

Oral cancer is a formidable opponent, but it is not invincible. By understanding its nuances, embracing rigorous prevention, committing to vigilant early detection, navigating treatment with resilience, and advocating with passion, you transform from an ordinary individual into an Oral Cancer Champion. Your actions, big or small, contribute to a healthier future, reducing the burden of this disease and empowering countless lives. Step forward, share your knowledge, and become the beacon of hope and action that the fight against oral cancer so desperately needs.