According to research, oral cancer is one of the only cancers in the U.S. where numbers are increasing and not decreasing. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, close to 43,250 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year.

Oral cancer includes cancer of your mouth, tongue, cheeks, soft palate and sinuses. Oral cancer appears as a growth or sore that does not go away.

Recent studies show almost 40 percent of diagnosed cases are for those who are under the age of 45 and non-smokers.

What are some warning signs of oral cancer?

The first sign is any mouth ulcer or sore that doesn't heal over two weeks. We are all prone to sores or ulcers in mouth from trauma such biting your tongue or cheek, something you ate was too hot or from a virus. These sores, however, will go away within a few days.

What are some other warning signs and symptoms that you should keep an eye on?

Dr. Mike discusses the major warning signs in the mouth that could be indicating a more serious condition.

Warning signs:

• Ulcers or sores in your mouth
• Hoarseness in your voice
• Swallowing issues
• Lumps on your neck
• Weight loss
• Tongue asymmetry