'Check your mouth and remove the doubt' - Why the Blackpool Tower was illuminated blue recently
“You don’t need to be certain that something is wrong before asking for help.”
Blackpool Tower was illuminated blue on 3 November to mark Mouth Cancer Action Month, raising awareness of the warning signs of a disease affecting growing numbers of people across the region.
The landmark’s illumination carried an important message for people across the Fylde coast: check your mouth, know what is normal for you and get unusual changes checked by a dentist or doctor.
The campaign comes as estimated annual mouth cancer diagnoses across the NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board area, which includes Blackpool, increased from around 249 in 2013 to 335 in 2022 – a rise of approximately 33%.
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The Oral Health Foundation, which runs Mouth Cancer Action Month throughout November, is encouraging residents to turn the awareness raised by the blue illumination into action. The charity’s campaign message is: “Change is Your Sign: Remove the doubt, get checked out.”
Karen Coates, dental nurse at the Oral Health Foundation, says: “Seeing Blackpool Tower lit up blue was a powerful reminder that mouth cancer awareness matters to every community, including those here on the Fylde coast.
“We want people to take that message home. Take a moment to check your mouth, learn what is normal for you and contact a dentist or doctor if you notice something unusual. You don’t need to be certain that something is wrong before asking for help.”
The charity is asking people to recognise three key warning signs:
- A mouth ulcer that has not healed within three weeks.
- A red or white patch inside the mouth.
- An unusual lump or swelling in the mouth, lip or neck.
Persistent difficulty swallowing, speaking or a hoarse voice should also be assessed. People are encouraged to seek advice promptly about a lump, patch or another worrying change. The three-week message applies specifically to an ulcer that has not healed.
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Residents are advised to use a mirror in good light to check their lips, tongue, gums, the inside of their cheeks, and the roof and floor of their mouth. Regular checks can help people notice changes, but they do not replace a professional examination.
Karen adds: “It can be tempting to put off an appointment because something doesn’t hurt or because you think it will clear up on its own. But a painless lump or patch still needs checking. Most changes won’t be cancer, but you need a professional assessment to know what is happening.
“When you contact a dental practice, explain what you have noticed and how long it has been there. If you cannot get a dental appointment, contact your GP. If the problem continues or gets worse after seeking advice, go back.”
Mouth cancer can affect anyone, including people who have never smoked or drink little alcohol. Stopping tobacco use, drinking less alcohol and receiving HPV vaccination when eligible can help reduce the risk. However, knowing the warning signs remains important whatever a person’s lifestyle.