Oral
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious disease that occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, or throat. It is often life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. The primary risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure (which can cause lip cancer), and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Poor oral hygiene, an unhealthy diet, and genetic factors can also contribute to its development.
Early symptoms of oral cancer include persistent mouth sores, white or red patches, lumps, unexplained bleeding, and difficulty in chewing or swallowing. Many cases go undetected in the early stages, making regular dental checkups crucial for timely diagnosis. If detected early, oral cancer can be treated effectively through surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. However, late-stage detection often leads to lower survival rates and more complicated treatments.
Oral cancer can present with various symptoms that may initially seem minor but can become severe if left untreated. One of the most common signs is a persistent sore in the mouth that does not heal within two weeks. Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks may also indicate abnormal cell growth. Unexplained bleeding, pain, or numbness in the mouth, lips, or throat are additional warning signs.
Other symptoms include difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw and tongue. A persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or a feeling that something is stuck in the throat may also be signs of oral cancer. Swelling, lumps, or thickening of tissues in the mouth, neck, or jaw should not be ignored, as they may indicate tumor growth. In some cases, individuals may experience ear pain without an infection or sudden, unexplained weight loss.
- the oral tongue (anterior 2/3rd of the tongue)
- the buccal mucosa (inner lining of the cheek)
- the floor of the mouth
- the hard palate
- the alveolus (teeth bearing areas of the jaw and upper bone)
- the lips
- Tobacco – Masala, gutkha, chewing tobacco, paan, beedi, or cigarettes are all causative factors of oral cancer.)
- Alcohol – Individuals who smoke and drink regularly are 50-100 times more at risk of developing oral cancer.
- Irritants – Oral habits such as consuming paan masala without tobacco or using lime paste can lead to oral cancer.
- Trauma – Constant trauma, such as that from a sharp tooth, can cause oral cancer.
- Sun Exposure – Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to lower lip cancers.