Standing with Survivors: The Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Ribbon Pin
Every April, the burgundy-and-ivory ribbon becomes a powerful beacon—raising awareness for Oral, Head and Neck cancers. These cancers affect vital areas like the lips, mouth, throat, larynx, and sinuses. While largely preventable and treatable when caught early, they often go unnoticed. That’s why we’re proud to offer our 1‑inch hard enamel awareness ribbon pins—a small but meaningful way to show support, spark conversations, and raise funds for those affected.
What the Ribbon Means
The ribbon’s two tones carry deeper meaning:
- Burgundy: symbolizing solidarity with patients and survivors
- Ivory: representing hope and renewed strength
Together, they honor those living with throat, mouth, pharyngeal, and laryngeal cancers, and encourage increased awareness during April’s Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month.
Why Awareness Matters
- Early detection drastically improves survival. Most head & neck cancers exhibit symptoms early—persistent sore throat, lumps, red/white patches, voice changes, ear pain, difficulty swallowing—but are often ignored.
- Rising incidence of HPV-related cancer. HPV‑16 and 18 infections are increasingly recognized as major risk factors for oropharyngeal cancer.
- Simple self-checks save lives. A mirror-aided scan lasting just 60 seconds can surface hidden symptoms. If any issues last more than three weeks, seeking medical attention is vital.
Signs to Watch For 💡
According to the CDC, Head and Neck Cancer Alliance, and Oral Cancer Foundation, look for:
- White/red patches or persistent sores in your mouth or throat
- Lumps in the neck or oral cavity
- Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or voice changes
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Ear pain, ringing, or numbness
- Loose teeth or jaw swelling
- Chronic sinus issues, nosebleeds, or headaches
Also watch for subtle signs like a loose tooth, odd sensations, or ongoing ear pain—all of which have been linked to oral cancer.
Professional & Self Screenings
- Dentist or doctor exams: Regular check-ups often include oral cancer screenings; alert them to any concerning symptoms.
- Vaccination: HPV vaccination is a strong preventive step against throat cancers linked to HPV .
- Perform the self-exam once a month under good lighting.
- Use a mirror and clean fingers to inspect all areas: lips, cheeks, gums, tongue (top, sides, underside), floor and roof of the mouth, and neck.
- Look for unusual lumps, sores, color patches, or persistent symptoms in your moth.
- Look for unusual lumps and/or bumps on your neck.
- If anything lasts more than two weeks, consult a dentist or doctor immediately.
- Need more of a visual? Check out this article by Healthline.com
Key Support Organizations:
- Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (HNCA) – Support, education, advocacy since 2008.
- Support for People with Oral, Head and Neck Cancer (SPOHNC) – Known as “Spunk,” offering free programs & publications.
- Oral Cancer Foundation – Provides online support communities and free health resources, including guides for self-exams.
Why Our Ribbon Pin Matters
You can’t always fix what you can’t see—but awareness can change that.
Wearing our 1″ burgundy-and-ivory hard enamel ribbon pins:
- Sparks conversation and prompts early detection
- Shows solidarity with survivors, caregivers, and medical professionals
Our pins are:
- Durable: Hard enamel construction & crisp colors
- Secure and comfortable: Single post with black rubber backs (locking option available)
- Gift-ready: Packaged on a cheerful card—ideal for fundraisers or personal support
How to Wear & Share It:
- Pin it to jackets, scarves, hats, tote bags, scrubs, employment badges—anywhere you want to show awareness
- Give it to loved ones in the fight—survivors, caregivers, clinicians, advocates
- Coordinate with fundraisers: wear during April events, health fairs, or awareness walks
- Share your story on social media using #OralHeadandNeckCancerAwareness to inspire others
How You Can Help
- Wear and share: Let the pin do the talking—spread awareness and start conversations
- Perform monthly self-checks: Just a minute in front of a mirror can catch early signs.
- Get screened annually: Especially if you use tobacco, drink heavily, or have an HPV history
- Support awareness groups: Donate to or volunteer with HNCA, SPOHNC, Oral Cancer Foundation, etc.
- Use your platform: Host fundraisers, post your pin story online, encourage family/friends to do the same
Real People, Real Impact
Stories of those whose persistent white ulcer were overlooked—highlight the importance of early detection. Prompt screening could make a real difference.
You don’t have to be a medical expert to drive awareness. Wearing a ribbon pin shows you care—and that you’re paying attention. It’s a signpost for others to recognize and act.
Oral, head & neck cancers don’t discriminate—they affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Early action increases survival; many cancers are curable when caught quickly.
This April—and every day—let’s stand together. By wearing this burgundy-and-ivory ribbon pin, you do more than decorate your lapel—you spark awareness, encourage screenings, and help fund real support for real people. Together, we can shine a light in some of the darkest places.
Pin for hope. Pin for action. Pin for change.
Browse our 1″ Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Ribbon Pins. Let’s fight this together—one ribbon, one conversation, one life at a time.
Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Ribbon Enamel Pin
Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Survivor Awareness Ribbon Enamel Pin