THE analysis of Public Health Wales’ Mouth Cancer Incidence in Wales 2025 report reveals that people living in the most deprived areas of Wales are more likely to be diagnosed with mouth cancer, and less likely to survive five years after diagnosis.

Late-stage diagnosis remains one of the most pressing challenges, with most cases in Wales identified at stage three or four, meaning treatment is more complex and outcomes are often poorer.

Professor Paul Brocklehurst, Consultant in Dental Public Health at Public Health Wales, said:“Mouth cancer is one of the few cancers where we can often see or feel the early signs ourselves, yet too many people wait too long before seeking professional advice. We are urging anyone who notices anything unusual in their mouth, such as an ulcer that will not heal, a red or white patch, or a lump, to see their dentist or GP as soon as possible.”

Smoking and drinking remain two of the biggest preventable risk factors for mouth cancer, along with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in some cases.

The tongue and oropharynx continue to be the most common sites for mouth cancer, and five-year survival rates remain below 50 percent for people diagnosed at advanced stages.

The Oral Health Foundation recommends a number of steps to reduce the risk of mouth cancer, including:

Preventing mouth cancer means tackling the factors that put some communities more at risk. Easier access to dental advice, less exposure to tobacco, and more smoke-free spaces will help close the gap in who develops and survives the disease.