Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It's part of a group of cancers called head and neck cancers. Most oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which begin in the flat cells lining the mouth and throat. ### Common Types of Oral Cancer: - **Lips** - **Tongue** - **Floor of the mouth** - **Gums (gingiva)** - **Inner lining of the cheeks (buccal mucosa)** - **Roof of the mouth (palate)** - **Oropharynx (throat)** ### Risk Factors: 1. **Tobacco Use**: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco, snuff) significantly increases the risk of developing oral cancer. 2. **Alcohol Consumption**: Heavy alcohol use is another major risk factor, especially when combined with tobacco use. 3. **Human Papillomavirus (HPV)**: Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, are associated with oropharyngeal cancers, including those affecting the base of the tongue and tonsils. 4. **Age**: Most cases of oral cancer occur in people over the age of 40. 5. **Sun Exposure**: Prolonged exposure to sunlight is a risk factor for lip cancer. 6. **Diet**: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of oral cancer. 7. **Genetic Predisposition**: Family history of cancer can increase the risk. 8. **Poor Oral Hygiene**: Chronic irritation from rough teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or poor dental hygiene may increase the risk. 9. **Immunosuppression**: Individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. ### Symptoms: - A sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks. - Persistent pain in the mouth. - A lump or thickening in the cheek. - Difficulty swallowing or a feeling that something is caught in the throat. - Numbness of the tongue or other areas of the mouth. - White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth. - Unexplained bleeding in the mouth. - Changes in speech, such as a lisp. - Ear pain without loss of hearing. ### Diagnosis: - **Physical Examination**: A thorough examination of the mouth and throat. - **Biopsy**: Taking a sample of tissue to check for cancer cells. - **Imaging Tests**: X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans can help determine the extent of the cancer. ### Treatment: Treatment depends on the location, stage, and type of cancer but often includes: - **Surgery**: To remove the tumour and possibly some surrounding tissue. - **Radiation Therapy**: Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. - **Chemotherapy**: Using drugs to kill cancer cells, often combined with radiation therapy. - **Targeted Therapy**: Drugs that target specific aspects of cancer cells. - **Immunotherapy**: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer. ### Prevention: - **Avoid Tobacco**: Quit smoking and avoid all forms of tobacco. - **Limit Alcohol**: Reduce alcohol consumption. - **Protect Lips from Sun Exposure**: Use lip balm with sunscreen. - **Healthy Diet**: Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. - **Regular oral physician check up *: Regular visits to the dentist can help detect early signs of oral cancer. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and survival. If you notice any persistent symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.