04/19/2026
ORAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Every April, communities across the United States unite to raise awareness about oral cancer — one of the most common yet preventable cancers affecting Americans today. At First Choice Pharmacy, we believe that awareness is the most powerful prescription we can offer. This April, we are proud to join the national conversation and remind our Houston community: early detection saves lives.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Like most cancers, oral cancer is most successfully treated when detected in its earliest stages — making awareness and routine screening critically important.
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain risk factors significantly increase a person’s likelihood of developing the disease:
• To***co use — smoking ci******es, ci**rs, pipes, or using chewing to***co
• Heavy or frequent alcohol consumption
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16
• Prolonged sun exposure to the lips
• A weakened immune system
• A prior diagnosis of oral cancer
• Age (most cases occur in people over 40, though HPV-related cases are rising in younger adults)
Know the Warning Signs
Oral cancer is often painless in its early stages, which is why it frequently goes undetected. Being familiar with the warning signs and performing regular self-exams can make a life-saving difference. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following persisting for more than two weeks:
Physical Signs
• Sores or ulcers that do not heal
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• A lump, thickening, or rough spot
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Loose teeth without dental cause
Functional Symptoms
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
• Numbness or pain in mouth or lips
• Ear pain on one side without hearing loss
• Unexplained weight loss
Prevention: Steps You Can Take Today
While no cancer is entirely preventable, there are meaningful steps every individual can take to significantly reduce their risk of developing oral cancer:
• Quit to***co of all kinds — smoking and chewing to***co are the leading risk factors for oral cancer. Ask your pharmacist about cessation programs and FDA-approved aids.
• Limit alcohol consumption — heavy alcohol use triples the risk of oral cancer. Moderation is key.
• Get the HPV vaccine — the HPV vaccine is recommended for preteens but can benefit adults up to age 45. Ask us about availability.
• Protect your lips from sun exposure — use SPF lip balm and wear a wide-brimmed hat outdoors.
• Eat a balanced, antioxidant-rich diet — fruits and vegetables high in vitamins A and C support oral health.
• Perform regular self-exams — check your mouth monthly for any changes, sores, or patches.
• Visit your dentist regularly — dentists perform oral cancer screenings and can detect early changes you may miss.
How First Choice Pharmacy Can Help?
As your neighborhood pharmacist, Tri Le, PharmD is committed to being more than just the place you pick up your prescriptions. We are your health partner — and during Oral Cancer Awareness Month, that means being a resource, a guide, and an advocate for your wellbeing.
To***co Cessation Support
Quitting to***co is the single most impactful step you can take to reduce your oral cancer risk. We carry FDA-approved ni****ne replacement products including patches, gum, and lozenges, and can counsel you on prescription cessation medications. Talk to Pharmacist Tri Le for a personalized quit plan at no charge.
Medication Reviews
Certain medications can cause dry mouth (xerostomia), which increases the risk of oral complications. During our free medication review consultations, we can identify medications that may be affecting your oral health and work with your doctor on alternatives or solutions.
Patient Education
We provide easy-to-understand materials on oral cancer risk factors, warning signs, and prevention strategies. Stop by our pharmacy to pick up our Oral Cancer Awareness resource packet this April — available free to all patients and community members.
This April, Make One Call That Could Change Everything.
Call Pharmacist Tri Le for a free consultation: 713-779-7603
7909 Hillcroft St., Suite B • Houston, Texas 77081
