PEOPLE are being urged to be aware of the potential warning signs and symptoms of mouth cancer.

The call comes during Mouth Cancer Action Month, which runs throughout November.

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust’s Community Dental service will be raising awareness with health professionals and the general public on the warning signs and symptoms of mouth cancer, as well as the factors that could put people at risk.

According to the Oral Health Foundation, more than 7,800 people were diagnosed with mouth cancer last year in the UK.

The disease has grown by a third in the last decade – and remains one of very few cancers which are predicted to increase further in the coming years.

The warning signs of mouth cancer are:

• Red, white or speckled patches in the mouth that can’t be wiped off

• Mouth ulcers or sores that take longer than three weeks to heal

• A lump or thickening in the mouth

• Problems chewing or swallowing lasting more than three weeks

• A sore throat that lasts longer than three weeks

To reduce the risk of mouth cancer:

• Check your mouth regularly and visit your dentist or GP immediately if you notice anything unusual

• Stop smoking/chewing tobacco

• Don’t drink more than the recommended limit of alcohol

• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet

To help raise awareness, the team will be attending a self-care event at Girlington Community Centre, Girlington Road, on Wednesday, November 14 from 10am until 12pm and the Salvation Army, 371 Leeds Road, Bradford, on Thursday, November 19 from 11.30am until 1pm.