Did you know that mouth cancer can develop silently, often without any early warning signs? The issue begins with abnormal cell growth in the mouth, which can develop into tumours in areas such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums. Many people fail to recognise the early warning signs, leading to delayed diagnosis and more complex treatment.

Adopting healthy habits such as stopping tobacco use, practising excellent oral care, and regularly visiting the dentist, can lower one's risk. Advanced treatments, including surgery, radiation, and targeted therapies, offer hope for recovery.

This blog discusses the essential facets of oral cancer, understanding its origins, frequently unnoticed signs, and the various treatment methods available.

Causes of Mouth Cancer
Symptoms of Mouth Cancer
Diagnosis of Mouth Cancer
Treatment of Mouth Cancer
Prevention of Mouth Cancer
Did You Know?
Myths & Facts
Conclusion
When to See a Doctor?
Frequently Asked Questions

Causes of Mouth Cancer

Although the precise cause of mouth cancer remains unclear, several risk factors contribute to an increased likelihood of developing the condition:

Consuming tobacco or smoking
Alcohol consumption
Certain strains of HPV, especially HPV-16, have been linked to an increased risk of oral cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers.
More common in individuals over the age of 40, with a higher incidence in men than in women.
Poor oral hygiene and dental health
A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk.

Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

Recognising mouth cancer at an early stage is essential for successful treatment. The symptoms may vary, but common signs include:

Persistent lumps or thickened areas in the mouth or throat that do not disappear after a few weeks.
Non-healing sores or ulcers in the mouth.
Pain in the mouth, or throat.
Changes in mouth texture such as the appearance of a white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or the lining of the mouth.
Trouble swallowing or a sensation of something being stuck in the throat.
Numbness or loss of sensation in the lips or mouth.
A change in voice or hoarseness
Unintended weight loss due to difficulty eating or swallowing.

Mouth Cancer

Diagnosis of Mouth Cancer

When mouth or oral cancer is suspected, a healthcare professional will perform an oral examination and may proceed with further diagnostic tests.

These tests include a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is collected and analyzed in a lab to detect cancerous cells, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans to assess the cancer's spread and severity.

Treatment of Mouth Cancer

Common treatment options include:

Surgery: The removal of the tumour and surrounding tissue is often the first course of treatment. In severe cases, lymph nodes in the neck may also be removed.
Radiotherapy: High-energy radiation is used to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours. It may be used alone or in combination with surgery.
Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumours or afterwards to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: It involves medication that targets specific weaknesses in cancer cells, disrupting their growth and survival.
Immunotherapy: Treatments that help the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. This is an emerging treatment option for some oral cancers.

Prevention of Mouth Cancer

While not all cases of mouth cancer can be prevented, the following measures can help reduce the risk:

Quitting smoking and refraining from using tobacco products is the most effective way to lower the risk of mouth cancer.
Reducing alcohol intake.
HPV Vaccination
Healthy diet such as fruits and vegetables.
Routine visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings can aid in the early detection of any unusual changes in the mouth.
Maintaining good oral hygiene

Did You Know?

Tobacco and alcohol are major contributors to the development of mouth cancer.
Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves survival rates, yet many cases go undiagnosed until later stages.

Myths & Facts

Myth 1: Only smokers get mouth cancer.
Fact: While smoking is a major risk factor, mouth cancer can also develop due to excessive alcohol consumption, HPV infection, prolonged sun exposure (for lip cancer), and genetic factors.

Myth 2: Mouth cancer only affects older adults.
Fact: Although more common in individuals over 40, mouth cancer can also affect younger people, particularly those exposed to risk factors such as HPV or tobacco use.

Myth 3: A mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal is nothing to worry about.
Fact: A persistent ulcer, soreness, or lump in the mouth that does not heal within two weeks should be checked by a doctor or dentist, as it could be an early sign of mouth cancer.

Conclusion

Understanding the risk factors, recognising early symptoms, and being aware of available treatments are essential for timely diagnosis and effective management of mouth cancer. By taking preventative measures, individuals can significantly lower their risk of developing this disease. If you notice any persistent symptoms, seek medical advice promptly for assessment and care.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek expert help if you notice persistent mouth sores, unexplained lumps, difficulty swallowing, or red or white patches in the mouth. Early detection is key to successful treatment. At Narayana Health, our specialists provide expert diagnosis and care for timely intervention.

Don’t wait— Schedule a consultation today with our advanced Medical Oncology Department for the best treatment plans and compassionate care— Call us @ 08068617735

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mouth-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20350997
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11184-oral-cancer

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