Some 300 Irish people are newly diagnosed with cancer of the mouth every year and less than half of these survive for more than five years.

These shocking statistics were released to coincide with the launch of Mouth Cancer Awareness Day 2011, which will take place on Wednesday, September 21.

According to the National Cancer Registry in Ireland, around half of all cases of this disease are diagnosed at an advanced stage. This has a major impact on the quality of life of those with the disease and their survival rates.

"Overall, less than 50% of patients diagnosed with mouth cancer survive more than five years. Two Irish people are dying every week from this lethal disease. More worryingly, the incidence of it is increasing in younger people and it is unclear why this is happening," commented Prof Leo Stassen, a consultant oral and maxillofacial surgeon at the Dublin Dental School and Hospital and St James's Hospital.

He claimed that the HSE is ignoring this serious disease by not giving it enough attention or resources.

Meanwhile, as part of next week's awareness day, free mouth cancer examinations are being made available to the public at dental surgeries nationwide, as well as at the Cork and Dublin Dental Hospitals.

Last year, over 3,000 people underwent free examinations at the Cork and Dublin Dental Hospitals as part of this event and six cases of the disease were detected as a result.

This year, more than 700 dentists around the country have also agreed to offer free mouth cancer examinations. This means a higher number of people will be examined this year.

"We encourage everyone to attend their local participating dentist on the day for their free mouth cancer examination. It's painless and takes less than five minutes," commented Dr Conor McAlister, president of the Irish Dental Association (IDA).

Some of the main risk for cancer of the mouth include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive exposure to sunlight and a diet lacking in fruit and vegetables.

Dr McAlister emphasised that the public needs to become more aware of these risk factors and change their lifestyle if required.

"Mouth Cancer Awareness Day plays a vital role in heightening awareness of the disease and the IDA is delighted to support it. Avoiding the risk factors and early detection are key to combating this disease," he added.

A list of participating dentists can be found here. People are advised to phone their nearest surgery to find out the exact times examinations are available. People who do not regularly attend their dentist are particularly welcome.

Mouth Cancer Awareness Day is a joint initiative by the IDA, the Irish Cancer Society, Dublin Dental University Hospital, Cork Dental University Hospital, the Dental Health Foundation and Mouth, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Ireland.

Anyone with concerns about cancer of the mouth or any other type of cancer can call the National Cancer Helpline on 1800 200 700.