Anna Nova Galeon

02-05-2025

Image by AntonioGravante via Envato Elements

Be aware, be early: Your mouth matters

Every November, Mouth Cancer Action Month shines a vital spotlight on a growing health concern that often goes unnoticed - mouth cancer. Taking place from 1 to 30 November 2025, this national campaign urges individuals, organisations, and communities to come together in support of prevention, education, and early detection of this potentially life-threatening disease.

Led by the Oral Health Foundation, with support from the Mouth Cancer Foundation, this initiative aims to enhance public awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mouth cancer. The theme for 2025, “#BeAwareBeEarlyYourMouthMatters”, highlights the critical importance of vigilance, awareness, and prompt action in safeguarding oral health.

What is mouth cancer?

Mouth cancer refers to cancers that occur in the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. While it is a serious condition, it is often overlooked and under-discussed compared to other cancers.

The leading causes include:

• Tobacco use (smoking and smokeless)
• Alcohol consumption
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Poor oral hygiene
• Unhealthy diet.

In the UK, more than 8,000 new cases of mouth cancer are diagnosed each year, and this number is rising. Alarmingly, many of these cases are detected at a late stage, making treatment more complex and reducing survival rates.

The importance of this year’s theme

The 2025 theme, “#BeAwareBeEarlyYourMouthMatters”, is a timely and powerful message encouraging everyone to take their oral health seriously.

• Be aware of symptoms such as persistent mouth ulcers, unexplained lumps, or red or white patches in the mouth.
• Be early in seeking help - prompt diagnosis significantly increases survival rates.
• Recognise that ‘’Your Mouth Matters’’ just as much as the rest of your body.

By reinforcing the message that early detection saves lives, the campaign aims to break the silence surrounding mouth cancer and foster a culture of proactive health monitoring.

Recognising the signs and symptoms

One of the core goals of Mouth Cancer Action Month is to educate people about what to look out for. Early signs include:

• Ulcers that do not heal within three weeks
• Persistent lumps or swellings in the mouth or neck
• Loose teeth or difficulty moving the jaw
• Unexplained bleeding, numbness, or pain
• Voice changes or sore throat.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your dentist or GP promptly. Regular dental check-ups also play a vital role in early detection.

Blue Wednesday - A day of unity and visibility

A highlight of the month is ‘’Blue Wednesday’’, observed on 13 November 2025. It’s a day when individuals and organisations are encouraged to wear blue or sport blue accessories to raise awareness and show support.

‘’Blue Wednesday’’ provides an opportunity for workplaces, schools, and communities to engage in conversations about mouth cancer, promote early detection, and share resources that could help save lives.

How to get involved

There are several meaningful ways to support Mouth Cancer Action Month 2025:

Raise awareness

Use your voice and platform to spread the message. Share facts and resources using the hashtag ‘’#BeAwareBeEarlyYourMouthMatters’’.

Book a check-up

Encourage yourself and others to schedule a dental appointment. Regular check-ups are key to identifying early symptoms.

Educate and Inform

Print posters, distribute leaflets, or host awareness talks in your organisation or community.

Join ‘’Blue Wednesday’’

Participate in ‘’Blue Wednesday’’ on 13 November by wearing blue and encouraging discussions around oral health.

Fundraise and support charities

Host local events or participate in sponsored challenges to support the Oral Health Foundation and the Mouth Cancer Foundation.

Why this campaign matters

With public awareness still low, many people do not associate symptoms with something as serious as cancer. By participating in Mouth Cancer Action Month 2025, we can change that narrative. Early diagnosis leads to a 90% survival rate, compared to 50% when detected late. This campaign not only empowers individuals with knowledge but also encourages organisations to prioritise oral health in the workplace and broader community.

Conclusion

Mouth Cancer Action Month 2025 reminds us that oral health is not something to be taken for granted. By raising awareness, learning the signs, and acting early, we can reduce the number of lives lost each year to this preventable and treatable disease.

Let’s work together to make a difference. Because your voice, your mouth, and your life truly matter.

Supporting health awareness through training and compliance

At The Mandatory Training Group, we proudly support health campaigns that drive education, prevention, and early intervention. As leaders in compliance, governance, and workforce training, we recognise the importance of promoting health awareness across all sectors.

Through our innovative platform, like ComplyPlus™, we help organisations embed best practices in health and safety, including the implementation of health promotion strategies in the workplace.

We encourage all employers to incorporate mouth cancer awareness into their wellbeing programmes and support employees in accessing regular health screenings.