Caroline Brodie Aberdeen Press and Journal November 15, 2010

Students in Dundee will be highlighting the dangers of mouth cancer today as a national awareness week begins.

Dundee University Students’ Association is hosting a week-long campaign with the aid of mouth cancer specialists from Dundee Dental School and representatives from cancer charities.

The drive will focus on smoking, alcohol, oral hygiene, nutrition and early detection, and will show how to reduce the risk of developing mouth cancer as well as early signs and symptoms.

Early diagnosis can increase survival chances from 50% to 90% and dentists play a key role.

Information on where patients can register for NHS dental care in the city will also be available.

The initiative has attracted support from MSPs after Tory health spokeswoman Mary Scanlon put forward a motion in parliament supporting the aims of mouth cancer awareness week.

Dundee East MSP Shona Robison said: “Mouth cancers are increasing in Scotland and we know most of them are caused by what might be called lifestyle factors like smoking and drinking.

“We know raising awareness is very important.

“Dentists are particularly well-placed to detect possible signs of oral cancer during an examination, and I know how large a part they have to play in our efforts to tackle mouth cancer.”

Student co-ordinator Andy Kinnear said: “Unfortunately, only 50% of people know cancer can occur in the mouth despite it being more prevalent than cervical cancer.

“The message is clear – mouth cancer is rising and it can be prevented and stopped.

“We want to encourage everyone in Dundee to come and visit us next week to learn more about mouth cancer and how they can reduce their own risk.”

Events will run at the students’ union in Airlie place between 12.30pm and 2pm each day and are open to the public.

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