Oral Cancer: Early Detection Can Save A Life![2024]

Oral or mouth cancer is defined as an ulcer or tumorous growth in the oral cavity or back of the throat. It can appear anywhere in the mouth, including the tongue, palate, floor of the mouth, tissue lining the mouth and gums, and throat. More than 80% of all global oral cancer cases occur in our country, making it one of the most common cancers in India.

Oral cancer is becoming more common, and the most concerning aspect is that it is affecting the younger generation. The most common cause of oral cancer is an unhealthy lifestyle, such as tobacco use. Tobacco is most commonly consumed in chewable or smoked form. Peer pressure and addiction drive a larger proportion of India’s tobacco consumption. Symptoms of Oral Cancer If you have any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks, see your doctor:

Single or Multiple White or Red Patches on Your Mouth and Lips.

• An ulcer or lump in your mouth that does not disappear within two weeks. 
• Unexplained pain in the mouth, throat, or ears 
• A lump or swelling on the cheek area 
• There is a persistent sensation in the throat. 
• Sore throat, hoarseness 
• difficulty chewing and swallowing. 
• difficulty moving the jaw 
• Numbness in parts of the mouth. 

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Statistics for Oral Cancer in India According to the Most Recent Analysis, the Following are the Statistics on Oral Cancer in India:

• It is the second-most common cancer in men. 
• Oral cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women. 
• Oral cancer makes up 20% of all cancer cases in India. 
• When diagnosed, 60-80% of patients with oral cancer are at an advanced stage. 

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer Different cancers Have Different Risk Factors. The Following Are Some Common Risk Factors For Oral Cavity Cancer:

• Tobacco products are the leading cause of oral and oropharyngeal cancer. Most people who have been diagnosed with oral cancer have a history of long-term tobacco use, such as smoking, sniffing, or chewing. Chewing tobacco users are more likely to develop cancers of the cheek, inner surface of lips, and gums as a result of the habit of storing tobacco in one location.
• Excessive alcohol: Consumption increases the risk of developing oral and oropharyngeal cancers. Smoking and drinking alcohol both increase the risk of oral cancer by several times.
• Betal quid: Many people chew betel quid (paan) or gutka (a combination of betel quid and tobacco). Tobacco products increase the risk of oral cancer.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Cancer of the oropharynx, particularly the base of the tongue and tonsils, can be caused by HPV type 16 (HPV16).
• Age and gender: While oral cancers are more common in older people, HPV-related cancers can occur in younger people. Men are more likely to develop oral and oropharyngeal cancers as a result of their heavy alcohol and tobacco use.
• Poor nutrition: According to various studies, a person who consumes a diet low in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants is more likely to develop various cancers, including oral and oropharyngeal cancer.
• Irritants: Many researchers believe that long-term irritation of the mouth’s mucosa caused by ill-fitting dentures or the use of mouthwash containing high alcohol content can lead to oral cancer.

Early detection and treatment reduce morbidity and mortality from oral cancer. Fortunately, there has been tremendous advancement in the treatment approach for oral and head-neck cancer, which improves treatment outcomes, rehabilitation, and reconstruction through superior surgical and medical facilities.