Mouth cancer is on the rise among women and younger people in Ireland, experts have warned.

According to Dr Denise McCarthy, a consultant in restorative dentistry and chairperson of Mouth, Head and Neck Cancer Ireland, there has been a ‘significant increase in the incidence of mouth cancer in Irish women in recent years'.

She also noted that previously, this was seen as a disease of older people, but now, ‘we are seeing more cases in young people'.

She made her comments to coincide with Mouth Cancer Awareness Day (September 16), which this year is highlighting the dangers of this disease to rural communities.

Some 300 cases of mouth, head and neck cancer are newly diagnosed every year in Ireland and around two people die from the disease every week. Farmers are generally acknowledged as being poor attenders of dentists and doctors, increasing the risk that if cancer is discovered, it will be in the later stages.

Figures from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) show that around 50% of all mouth cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage, which means more complex treatment may be required.

Furthermore, less than 50% of those diagnosed with cancer of the mouth or pharynx survive for more than five years.

"I had been to the dentist three times in 27 years. I'm a non smoker, don't drink much and lead a fairly healthy life. So in many ways I was lucky I broke my tooth and cut my tongue as that forced me to visit my dentist and that very quickly led to the discovery of a tumour under my tongue," explained Limerick farmer, Morgan Murphy (54).

According to Dr Eleanor O'Sullivan of Cork University School and Dental Hospital, if you smoke and drink, your risk of developing mouth cancer is 40 times higher.

"However the lack of risk factors does not preclude oral cancer diagnosis. Whatever the cause, the key point to remember is that early detection saves lives," she commented.

Symptoms can include a sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within three weeks.

"Other signs are white or red patches inside the mouth, a lump in the mouth or neck or a persistent sore throat or hoarseness. If you or someone you know hasn't visited the dentist in a long time, we would urge you to get it checked out. Everyone who has a medical card is entitled to a free examination annually while most other people will be covered under the PRSI scheme," explained Dr Conor McAlister of the Irish Dental Association.

Anyone with concerns about this or any other type of cancer should call the National Cancer Helpline on 1800 200 700. Calls are free of charge.