UK Woman Advocates Dental Checks After Life-Saving Diagnosis

UK: A Northern Ireland woman, Etain Fitzpatrick (pictured), is advocating for regular dental check-ups after her dentist’s vigilance led to a life-saving diagnosis of oral cancer in 2022. Fitzpatrick, 55, from Co Down, discovered the critical role her dental appointments played in identifying and treating the disease early.

Speaking to Belfast Live, Fitzpatrick shared her journey, which began with a persistent ulcer on her tongue that wouldn’t heal. “It was my dentist who identified the cancer,” she explained. “It was never a cancer that crossed my mind.”

The Start of Etain’s Journey

Etain’s journey began in early 2021 when a routine dental check-up revealed white spots beneath her tongue. Her dentist promptly referred her to the Ulster Hospital for further investigation. A biopsy conducted at that time showed no signs of concern, and she was advised to monitor for any changes.

Over a year later, in August 2022, an ulcer appeared on the side of her tongue, causing significant discomfort. She initially sought relief through over-the-counter remedies but turned to her dentist when the pain worsened. Her dentist immediately flagged her as a red-flag patient, referring her back to the Ulster Hospital.

“Within five weeks, I had an appointment and a biopsy of the ulcer undertaken,” Etain recalled. “During the five-week wait, the ulcer got really aggressive and painful to the extent that I could hardly eat. I started to lose weight, only able to eat yogurts and soft fruit.”

A Life-Changing Diagnosis

The biopsy revealed oral cancer. Etain underwent a 10-hour surgery at the Ulster Hospital, during which 25% of her tongue was removed and reconstructed using grafts from her thigh and arm. “The surgery was extensive, and everything was explained to me beforehand—how my speech could be severely impacted and that I could have problems moving my neck,” she said.

Following her operation and 10 days in the hospital, Etain received the news that she was cancer-free. “When the Consultant contacted me to tell me that I was now cancer-free, I was in tears. I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “He said I had a good margin and no further treatment such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy was required.”

Raising Awareness and Promoting Early Detection

Etain’s experience has driven her to raise awareness about oral cancer and the importance of regular dental visits. Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon John Hanratty, who treated her, emphasised the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, which include ulcers lasting more than three weeks, red or white patches, and lumps or swelling in the mouth or neck.

“Early detection and treatment can dramatically improve outcomes,” Mr. Hanratty said. He also highlighted lifestyle factors that increase the risk of oral cancer, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, and social deprivation.

A New Lease on Life

Now fully recovered, Etain has returned to her active lifestyle and rediscovered her love for hiking in Co Down. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed gratitude for the care she received: “I cannot thank the Oral and Maxillo-Facial Team at the Ulster Hospital enough; they are my heroes and my angels.”

Etain hopes her story inspires others to prioritize their oral health. “Never ignore dental appointments,” she urged. “It could save your life.”

For more details on Etain’s story, watch the full video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNqonQbdfPY&feature=youtu.be.