Mouth cancer is a growing concern in the UK, with more than 8,700 new cases diagnosed each year, and sadly, one person is lost to mouth cancer every three hours. Despite this, public awareness remains low, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and higher mortality rates. Almost nine in ten (88%) UK adults have heard of mouth cancer, however, people aren’t familiar with the signs, symptoms and risk factors. Therefore, it can develop silently and may go unnoticed until it reaches advanced stages.
Many are also unaware that their dentist will screen for mouth cancer during every check-up, looking for any suspicious changes in the mouth. People must also keep an eye on and act on any unusual symptoms – it can make all the difference. Each person’s individual actions, from regular dental check-ups to being vigilant about their health, can significantly impact survival rates, as Helen Rowney’s story powerfully illustrates.
More about head and neck cancer care.
Helen’s story
At 65, Helen lives in Norwich after relocating from London eight years ago. She works in research panel recruitment and is married to Michael, an art director. Extremely health-conscious, Helen works out four times a week and enjoys spending weekends walking their dog, going out for dinner, or seeing a film.
“I’m always on the go and a big believer in staying healthy and strong. I have always eaten clean, don’t smoke, and don’t drink. I also love my work – it truly sets my heart on fire.”
Helen also has two grown-up children, aged 34 and 36. “My son lives in Los Angeles, and we always try to visit him and his wife four times a year. My daughter is a little closer to home, living in Norwich with her partner and my first grandchild.”
“Everything from family to friends and my love of work fills me with joy,” she said.
Helen’s health scare
In June last year, Helen’s pace of life paused when a routine dental appointment set her on an unexpected path.
“For years, dentists had noticed white spots in my mouth and recurring mouth ulcers that, while painful, hadn’t raised major alarms.”
“Then, about five years ago, my dentist referred me to A&E.”
There, Helen was diagnosed with lichen planus – a condition where white, lace-like patches appear in the mouth that can sometimes precede cancerous changes.
“Since then, I’ve undergone regular biopsies every six months to monitor for any changes, and I prioritise my dental check-ups, seeing a hygienist every couple of months.”
During one of these regular check-ups, Helen’s hygienist spotted something different – a sore on Helen’s upper left gum that she flagged as unusual. This prompted a swift referral back to Guy’s, where further examination revealed Helen had early-stage mouth cancer.
“Thanks to my hygienist for detecting the issue early, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 mouth cancer. This meant it hadn’t spread to other parts of the body, and not only meant a better chance of recovery but also that I didn’t need chemotherapy or radiotherapy.”
Treatment and surgery
In August 2023, Helen was referred to Cromwell Hospital, where a specialist team, including surgeons Mr Rafal Niziol and Mr Alastair Fry, performed a complex surgical procedure to remove the cancer. Helen underwent what she described as an intensive 8-hour surgery that involved removing her upper teeth, reconstructing her jaw with part of her fibula bone, and grafting skin from her leg to form a new palate.
Following the surgery, Helen spent five days in intensive care, where her care team provided round-the-clock support, allowing her family to stay by her side.
“My son and his wife flew from LA and stayed near the hospital. The wonderful nurses let them sit with me from 8am until 7pm every day during a week of bed rest.”
Helen describes the whole experience as a “surreal moment” in her life and speaks of the “walking angels” in the ICU with immense admiration and gratitude.
“I’ll forever be grateful to Rafal, Alastair, and the entire team at Cromwell Hospital. I don’t have enough words to express how incredible, kind and caring they are.”
Recovery and rebuilding
After Helen was discharged, she started a steady road recovery journey.
“I don’t remember a day when I haven’t been outside, but post-surgery, I couldn’t walk and had to use crutches. Gradually, I regained my strength bit by bit. I started with short walks around the house, and after several weeks, managed to return to the gym, which is a huge part of my life.”
Helen returns to the hospital every three months for follow-up appointments, and over a year since her surgery, she is in the process of getting dental implants.
“The next step involves placing temporary teeth studs before crowns can be fitted. I don’t have any teeth at the moment, so I’m really looking forward to this next step. Smiling is such a big part of who I am.
“I’m also awaiting a final procedure after Rafal noticed a concerning white spot on my tongue. Hopefully, once this is completed before Christmas, I can be assured that I've done everything possible to prevent further problems.”
One of Helen’s biggest learnings is the importance of healing. “It takes time to recover physically and emotionally, so it’s essential to take it slow.”
Helen is also extremely passionate about her oral health. “My journey to diagnosis started at the dentist by prioritising regular check-ups, so I urge everyone not to overlook visits and to spend a few extra minutes in the morning and at night checking inside your mouth, using interdental brushes, and brushing for two minutes because it can really make a difference.”
Signs and symptoms
Early detection is key, and being proactive in recognising the signs and symptoms could save lives. Watch out for:
- Unexplained white or red patches inside the mouth
- Persistent mouth ulcers that do not heal after three weeks
- Lumps or swellings in the mouth, jaw, or neck
- Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving the tongue
