Over 300 cases of cancer of the mouth are newly diagnosed in Ireland annually and two people die every week from the disease.

This year's Mouth Cancer Awareness Day takes place on September 21 and on that day, people can avail of free check-ups from over 300 participating dentists nationwide.

Cancer of the mouth refers to cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx, which is the part of the throat that is behind the mouth and above the oesophagus (food pipe). It can be easily detected by a quick and painless dental examination and when caught in the early stages, is very treatable.

However, figures from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland show that around 50% of all cases here are diagnosed at an advanced stage, which can affect treatment options, quality of life and survival rates.

While smoking and drinking alcohol significantly increase the risk, non-smokers and non-drinkers can also develop the disease.

"We are seeing an increase in the incidence of this disease and seeing it in younger people. It's not just smokers and drinkers. Whatever the cause, the key point to remember is that early detection saves lives," commented Dr Conor McAlister of the Irish Dental Association.

Speaking at the launch of Mouth Cancer Awareness Day, former heavyweight boxer, Cathal O'Grady, explained his shock when he was diagnosed with the disease in May of this year, despite living a healthy lifestyle.

"I don't drink or smoke and lead an active and healthy life so I was really floored when I received the diagnosis. It just shows you that while smoking and drinking increase the risks, this disease can strike anyone.

"Thankfully my dentist spotted the lump in my mouth during a regular visit and then she put the arrangements in place for a biopsy and follow-on appointment with the Dublin University Dental School. So the disease was caught in its early stages and that's really important," he said.

Some of the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer include a sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within three weeks, red or white patches inside the mouth, a lump in the mouth or throat, a persistent sore throat or persistent hoarseness.

More than 300 dental surgeries nationwide have agreed to provide free check-ups as part of Mouth Cancer Awareness Day 2016. Almost 30 cases of mouth cancer have been detected on previous awareness days. If a dentist is concerned about a patient's mouth, they will be referred to a dental hospital for further management.

For more information on Mouth Cancer Awareness Day, including a list of participating dentists, click here