Surge in Australia’s Tongue Cancer Diagnoses Raises Concerns

Alarming Increase in Tongue Cancer Cases, Particularly Among Women Under 45

AUSTRALIA: The nation has witnessed a significant surge in tongue cancer diagnoses, with more than 1300 reported cases last year alone. The concerning trend reveals an unexpected rise, particularly in cohorts not traditionally associated with the cancer, such as younger women with no history of smoking or heavy drinking.

Rising Rates and Urgent Calls for Awareness

The latest data from the Australian Health and Welfare indicates a continuous annual increase of approximately 3% in tongue cancer diagnoses. Notably, for women under the age of 45, the rate spikes to a 4% rise each year, though the cause of this uptick remains elusive. General Practitioners (GPs) are being urged to remain vigilant for symptoms as early detection is crucial.

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While the main risk factors for tongue and mouth cancers include tobacco use and alcohol consumption, the rise in diagnoses among younger women underscores the need for expanded awareness. The contributing factors could potentially involve human papillomavirus, Epstein-Barr virus, poor oral hygiene, and gum disease.

GPs’ Role and Challenges

RACGP Vice President Associate Professor Michael Clements emphasizes the importance of broadening the differential diagnosis list for GPs. He notes the challenge in early detection, stating, “We’re often thinking of oral cancer as a smoker’s or an older person’s disease, so it’s a reminder for us as GPs to keep our differential list wide.”

The surge in tongue cancer cases coincides with challenges in accessing timely oral healthcare, particularly in remote and regional communities. The Australian Dental Association highlights that a significant number of people lack access to dental services within a 60-minute drive time, especially in very remote areas.

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Limited Awareness and Training

Associate Professor Clements notes that many patients are unaware of tongue cancer and its symptoms. He urges individuals not to ignore any lesions in the mouth and emphasizes the need for timely consultation with a dentist or GP for persistent sores or lumps.

Despite being the first point of contact for potential tongue cancer cases, GPs face limited training and education. The RACGP has taken a step to address this gap by releasing a new online learning activity, ‘Oral cancer screening and prevention,’ aimed at providing optimal referral and treatment pathways for GPs.

Dr. Clements highlights the generalist role of GPs and the necessity to stay informed about a broad range of medical conditions. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining oral health education and vigilance for unusual symptoms or lesions that don’t seem to improve.

This surge in tongue cancer diagnoses serves as a poignant reminder for both healthcare professionals and the community to prioritize oral health and prompt medical attention for potential symptoms.