April is Oral Cancer Awareness month. Always April is a national partnership of oral surgery practices across the country that strives to bring oral cancer awareness into a year-round discussion.

This year, Drs. Ferguson and Smith from Oral Surgery Services looked for signs of oral cancer in two screening events at our Metairie and Gretna offices. We were so happy to be able to offer this service at no cost to the communities we serve and look forward to continuing to spread awareness about oral cancer and the importance of regular oral cancer screenings. It is important to note, that the earlier oral cancer is detected and treated, the better the outcome.

By the numbers...

54,010–The estimated number of people diagnosed with oral cancer in 2021
10,850–The estimated number of deaths from oral cancer in 2021
49–Oral cancer kills one person every 49 minutes in the United States
10–One person is diagnosed with oral cancer every 10 minutes in the United States
81–When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for oral cancer is about 81%
25–At least 25% of oral cancer victims have no known risk factors

What to expect during an oral cancer screening:

There is no need to do anything to prepare for a standard oral cancer screening. During the screening, an oral care specialist will look over the inside of your mouth to check for red or white patches or mouth sores. They will also feel the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or other abnormalities, and may examine your throat and neck for lumps.

*Advanced appointments requested. Local health guidelines for COVID-19 will be followed and masks are required as we look to provide a safe and healthy environment for you, our patients, staff, and doctors.

April is Oral Cancer Awareness month. Always April is a national partnership of oral surgery practices across the country that strives to bring oral cancer awareness into a year-round discussion.

By the numbers...

What to expect during an oral cancer screening:

Metairie Office

Gretna Office