November marks Mouth Cancer Action Month, an annual campaign dedicated to raising awareness of mouth cancer and the importance of early detection.
Across the UK, more than 10,000 people are diagnosed with mouth cancer each year, with incidence rates continuing to rise. The good news is that when mouth cancer is found early, treatment is often more successful, and outcomes can be significantly improved.
As part of NHS Shetland’s Oral Health Team awareness campaign for 2026, everyone is encouraged to recognise the signs and symptoms. These may include ulcers that do not heal within three weeks, red or white patches in the mouth, lumps or swellings in the mouth, head or neck, persistent hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing.
Mouth Cancer Action Month encourages us all to become ‘mouthaware’ by checking regularly for any unusual changes and seeking advice from a dentist, GP or healthcare professional if something doesn’t seem right. Regular self-checks remain an important part of maintaining good oral health habits at home. Find out how to carry out a simple mouth self-check: Self Examination | Mouth Cancer Foundation in UK
We are looking forward to collaborating with Clan Cancer Support Shetland for Mouth Cancer Awareness this year. We will be holding a number of drop-in sessions open to all at Islesburgh Community Centre during November and we would love to see you there!
These are as follows:
Advice and information drop-in sessions
Monday 2 November, 11am to 1pm – Room 13, Islesburgh Community Centre
Monday 9 November, 2pm to 4pm – Room 13, Islesburgh Community Centre
Monday 23 November, 2pm to 4pm – Room 13, Islesburgh Community Centre
Oral Care for Cancer Patients
Wednesday 18 November, 11am to 1pm – Room 13, Islesburgh Community Centre
Mouth Cancer Talk
Wednesday 11 November, 5pm to 6.30pm – Room 9, Islesburgh Community Centre
Read the full press release here – NHS Shetland and Clan Cancer Support join forces for Mouth Cancer Action Month – NHS Shetland
Whether you are a healthcare professional, or part of the wider community, taking a few moments to know the signs of mouth cancer could make a real difference. Early detection saves lives.
For more information about mouth cancer, its signs and symptoms, and our local awareness activities, follow Oral Health Improvement – NHS Shetland or visit www.mouthcancer.org.
by Angela Hopwood, Joint Lead, Oral Health Improvement Team
