April 7, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Stresses Importance of Oral Health
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
WARRENTON, Va. – This April, the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds every adult to get screened for oral cancer. Like other cancer screenings, oral cancer screenings are an effective means of finding cancer at its early, highly curable stages. Early detection is the first step toward a successful treatment.
“Oral health is a vital part of overall health and well-being,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “During Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage our community to prioritize regular screenings, early detection, and preventive care. Together, we can reduce the burden of oral disease and improve health outcomes across our district.”
The use of tobacco and alcohol is a leading cause of oral cancer because it leads to damage of the DNA of cells inside your mouth and throat. Another cause is through exposure to human papillomavirus virus (HPV). The quickest growing segment of the oral cancer population is young, healthy, non-smokers due to the connection to this HPV.
Self-examinations can also help detect oral cancer. Consult a healthcare provider if you find any of the following conditions:
- A sore on your lip or in your mouth that doesn’t heal.
- Unusual bleeding, pain or numbness in your mouth.
- Difficulty or pain when chewing or swallowing.
To help prevent oral cancer, The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District suggests these steps:
- Limit Alcohol Use: Limiting your intake to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women can lower your risk.
- Avoid Tobacco: Never using or quitting tobacco, to include cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, and/or pipes, reduces your risk.
- Avoid HPV Infection: Talk to your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccination. The vaccine can prevent new infections of certain types of HPV associated with oral cancer.
- Eat Healthy: Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
- Get Regular Checkups: Visit your healthcare provider and dentist regularly. The earlier oral cancer is found, the greater your chances of beating it.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Dental Health Program is designed to improve equitable access to dental care and public health interventions through community-based prevention programs.
To learn more about the Dental Health Program at VDH, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.
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