This is the sixth most common cancer in Portugal and in the world. Here's how to fight it

This is the sixth most common cancer in Portugal and in the world. However, it is still often forgotten and few Portuguese know that like what is done for bad cancer, as well as for the cancer of the mouth, there is a self-examination that can help identify quickly injuries. In addition to regular visits to the dentist, gestures can make a difference, says João Braga, dentist at the Best Quality Dental Centers (BQDC), organizer of World Cancer Day, scheduled for February 4

. " an oral medicine consultation, the dentist performs a visual examination of the entire oral cavity and attached structures, which can quickly detect suspicious lesions "explains. "With these consultations, it is possible to screen for the disease, to identify / treat potentially malignant lesions, to teach the patient to self-examine the cavity. oral, "he adds

Even more important consultations in patients at risk " Namely smokers, people with alcohol habits, people regularly exposed to solar radiation (cancer of the lip.) And they are also important for education and public awareness of the problem of oral cancer. "

Because the oral cavity is part of the body," all their problems can affect health in general, "reinforces the doctor. And there are even recent studies that indicate that those with poor oral health are more likely to suffer from a cancer of the mouth. "There is also evidence that there is an badociation between significant plaque levels and premature death from cancer" adding, to be understandable, "since the same bacterium that causes periodontitis (a disease inflammatory gum disease) and tissues surrounding the tooth) play an important role in the development of pancreatic cancer and upper gastrointestinal tract cancer.The inflammation potentiates cellular changes, bacterial spread and disease factors. Bacterial virulence throughout the body All of these factors can be preponderant for the development of cancers. "Not to mention the immune system, whose" effectiveness is diminished "

cancer, oral health is also crucial here. . João Braga explains that cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy and / or radiotherapy "often feel many changes in their mouths .Those changes will be more serious and uncomfortable if the oral health status Patient's initial dental is not healthy.For this reason, all patients should also take care of their oral health. "

Seeing the dentist after diagnosis and before starting treatment is therefore essential for Assessment of Oral Health "To perform the necessary treatments and to receive instructions on how to practice oral hygiene and to act on the side effects of oncological treatments. "

Inquiries that must be pursued during treatment so that the "dentist can advise the patient to minimize the unavoidable side effects". "In general, and because the effects of treatments vary considerably from one patient to another, this should be more rigorous in their daily oral hygiene.You should use a soft brush and a fluoride paste, wire or Dental tape and a disinfectant for the tongue.The use of mouthwashes should be advised by the dentist on a case by case basis.The patient may notice an increase in bleeding from the gum due to a decrease in the number of platelets and immune system cells, but this should not prevent it from continuing to sanitize properly because, otherwise, oral health will deteriorate and bleeding is inevitable. "

As for food, the BQDC specialist recommends avoiding spicy, crisp and acidic foods ", preferring soft foods and easy chewing to prevent ul

Despite the importance of this care, João Braga believes that today it is still a neglected area. Although the medical team is becoming more and more aware of the importance of oral health, I think that Portuguese patients with cancer are not yet fully aware of its importance for their treatment and their well-being. There is a tendency to worry only about the most serious problems and to neglect everything. "

To prevent cancer, in addition to any advice for a healthier life ," people must take care of themselves. intimate diaries of oral hygiene (brushing teeth and gums at least twice a day, flossing, brushing teeth, disinfecting tongue) and regular visits to your dentist. One should also avoid direct sun exposure, as well as the use of sunscreen with sunscreen and HPV vaccination. "