Learn how to protect your voice from mouth and throat cancer through prevention and early detection
FNHA is launching a new public health campaign to raise awareness about mouth and throat cancer to support prevention and early detection for First Nations people in BC.
Mouth and throat cancer affect individuals, families and communities — and awareness is one of the strongest tools for protecting wellness. The campaign, Protect Your Voice, highlights how stories, songs and languages begin with our voices, and encourages everyone to learn about the preventive and early detection measures that can make a life‑changing difference.
Understanding risks
Mouth and throat cancer can occur at any age but is most often diagnosed between the ages of 45 and 60.
There are two leading causes:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Alcohol and commercial tobacco use
Rates of HPV‑related throat cancer have increased more than 200 per cent over the past two decades. People who smoke commercial tobacco face a five to ten times higher risk of mouth and throat cancer than non-smokers.
Prevention and early detection
The three key actions that can help protect against mouth and throat cancer include:
- Reduce commercial tobacco and alcohol use. The risk of mouth and throat cancer decreases within the first five years of quitting commercial tobacco. If someone who smoked has quit for 20 or more years, their risk is the same as someone who has never smoked.
- Get vaccinated against HPV. The HPV vaccine is safe, effective and free for everyone in BC ages 9–26, and some eligible adults up to age 45. It protects against six types of cancer, including mouth and throat cancer.
- Visit your oral health professional regularly. Regular check‑ups can identify early signs of mouth and throat cancer. Coverage for regular dental visits is available for eligible clients through the First Nations Health Benefits Dental program. Additionally, travel assistance may also be available for eligible clients if required dental care is not available closer to home.
Protect Your Voice
Taking care of your oral health is an act of strength — you have the power to protect your voice.
FNHA offers a range of programs and benefits to support oral health, cancer prevention and wellness.
To learn more about mouth and throat cancer, prevention options and available support, visit fnha.ca/protectyourvoice.