Four years ago, the world said goodbye to guitar legend Eddie Van Halen, whose musical genius helped shape the sound of modern rock. As co-founder and lead guitarist of the legendary band Van Halen, his influence stretched across decades. Sadly, he passed away at age 65 following a battle with oral cancer—a disease that doesn’t always receive the attention it deserves.

Van Halen first faced tongue cancer in 2000, undergoing successful treatment. After years in remission, he was later diagnosed with throat cancer in 2018, a fight that ended in October. While he speculated that years of using metal guitar picks may have contributed to his illness, health experts point more convincingly to his longtime smoking and alcohol use as likely causes.

The connection between oral cancer and lifestyle habits is strong. The American Cancer Society reports that most individuals diagnosed with oral cancer have a history of tobacco use—and when alcohol is also involved, the risk increases exponentially. In fact, combining heavy drinking with smoking can raise the likelihood of developing oral cancer by up to 100 times.

At Lifetime Dental Group, with offices in Canton, South Lyon, and West Bloomfield, we believe that education is the first step toward prevention. Here are several important ways you can lower your risk:

1. Say goodbye to tobacco. Whether it’s cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco, quitting dramatically decreases your risk of oral cancer. You don’t have to do it alone—ask your physician or a support program for help.

2. Cut back on alcohol. Moderate drinking (one drink per day for women, two for men) is generally considered low-risk, but frequent or heavy consumption can be dangerous. If reducing alcohol seems overwhelming, talk to your healthcare provider about resources.

3. Prioritize nutrition. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can play a powerful role in cancer prevention. Avoid processed meats and additives like nitrites, which have been linked to several cancers. Antioxidant-rich foods, on the other hand, help protect cells and support a strong immune system.

4. Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and keeping up with routine dental visits not only supports your smile but may also lower your risk for oral cancers. Plaque buildup and gum disease are both linked to inflammation, which can play a role in many systemic diseases.

5. Don’t ignore warning signs. If you notice a sore that won’t heal, a lump inside your mouth, red or white patches on your tongue or cheeks, or trouble swallowing, schedule an appointment right away. Early detection is key—oral cancer caught in its early stages has a significantly higher survival rate.

Oral cancer is less common than some other types, but it’s among the deadliest due to late diagnoses. At Lifetime Dental Group, our team is trained to screen for oral abnormalities during routine exams. These simple, non-invasive checks can be life-saving.

If you have questions about oral cancer or would like to schedule a screening, we invite you to contact any of our convenient locations in Canton, South Lyon, or West Bloomfield. Your health is our top priority—and we’re here to help you take proactive steps toward a healthier future.