The Oral Health Foundation has launched a charter to show the necessary steps needed to reduce cases of mouth cancer and its mortality in the UK.

The charity created the Mouth Cancer Charter for November’s Mouth Cancer Action Month. It recommends seven measures to raise awareness, improve early detection, and enhance patient care.

Tim Newton, the president of the Oral Health Foundation, said, “As we strive to reduce the number of people affected by this devastating disease, we require coordinated action at many levels. Our charter is a call to action for everyone, from the government to healthcare providers to the public at large.

"Early recognition of the signs and symptoms will be crucial when identifying mouth cancer at a point where intervention is most effective. Once individuals with signs that suggest possible mouth cancer wish to discuss their symptoms, there are a range of healthcare professionals that they may approach their concerns. Supporting all healthcare professionals to recognise symptoms and make appropriate referral will be key.”

The charter was launched at the House of Commons at a reception hosted by Grahame Morris, MP for Easington.

The event featured speeches by Bill Brodie, CEO of Vigilant Biosciences and Mahesh Kumar, oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Joe Butler, a mouth cancer survivor from Sheffield, shared his story with the room during the afternoon session. Diagnosed at 26 years old, his recurring tongue ulcer was detected during a routine dental appointment. Joe highlighted how that visit to the dentist ultimately saved his life.

Some of the charter’s recommendations include a government-funded mouth cancer campaign, improving access to routine dentistry and improving training for non-dental healthcare staff to recognise the signs of mouth cancer.

The Oral Health Foundation said improving education on the signs and symptoms and enhancing training for non-dental healthcare providers could ensure more cases are detected earlier. The charity added that this will not only improve the chances of survival but also significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected.

Other steps highlighted in the charter included improving referral pathways, supporting the development of better technology, and introducing free dental check-ups and treatment for mouth cancer patients.

Tim said, "Streamlining referral pathways can only benefit mouth cancer care. By enabling faster access to specialists through direct referrals and one-stop clinics, we can reduce delays and ensure timely treatment, which is vital for improving survival rates.

“We also believe advancing diagnostic technologies such as AI and biosensors could play a significant role in helping detect cancer earlier, providing faster, more accurate results and improving patient outcomes.

"Introducing free dental check-ups for mouth cancer patients, who often require more extensive oral care as part of their recovery, will alleviate the unnecessary and unjust financial burdens they face."

The Oral Health Foundation has invited people to sign the charter as a show of support.

For more information visit www.dentalhealth.org/mouthcancercharter

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