* Oral Cancer

What is Oral Cancer

Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth or oral cavity, which includes the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth (palate), and the inner lining of the cheeks. Additionally, cancers that occur in the oropharynx, which includes the back third of the tongue, tonsils, and the walls of the throat, are often categorized as oral cancers. The majority of oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which originate in the thin, flat cells lining the oral cavity and throat.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Tobacco use: Smoking tobacco and using smokeless tobacco products increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
• Alcohol consumption: Heavy and prolonged alcohol use is a significant risk factor, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Infection with certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, is associated with an increased risk of oral cancers, particularly in the oropharynx.
• Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of lip cancer.
• Poor oral hygiene: Chronic irritation and inflammation, often associated with poor oral hygiene or ill-fitting dentures, may contribute to the development of oral cancer.

Symptoms of Bone Cancer:

• Persistent mouth sores or ulcers that do not heal
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Persistent pain or discomfort in the mouth
• Difficulty or pain while chewing or swallowing
• Swelling, lumps, or thickening of the oral tissues
• Changes in voice or speech difficulties
• Numbness or tingling in the mouth or on the lips

Diagnosis:

• Diagnosis often involves a physical examination of the oral cavity and throat, including the use of a scope for a closer view (endoscopy).
• Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its type.

Treatment:

• Treatment for oral cancer depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:
  • Surgery to remove the tumor
  • Radiation therapy to target and destroy cancer cells
  • Chemotherapy to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells
  • Targeted therapy, which uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in cancer growth
  • Immunotherapy, which boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer

Prognosis:

The prognosis for oral cancer depends on factors such as the stage of cancer, the location, and the overall health of the patient. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes.

Screening Recommendations:

• • Avoiding tobacco use and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk of developing oral cancer.
  • Practicing good oral hygiene and having regular dental check-ups for early detection of oral abnormalities.
  • Getting the HPV vaccine, which can reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers, including some oral cancers.