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Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the mouth and throat. It is often diagnosed when the disease has progressed to the point of spreading to the lymph nodes in the neck. However, if detected early, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, stages, and treatment options of oral cancer based on reliable medical sources.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is part of a larger group of cancers known as head and neck cancers. It typically develops in the tissues of the lips, gums, tongue, and palate. While it can affect people of all ages, the risk increases with age, especially in people over 40. Men also have a higher risk of developing oral cancer compared to women.

Types of oral cancer

Oral cancer can affect various parts of the mouth, including:

• Lip cancer  : affects the skin of the lips.
• Tongue cancer  : affects the tongue and is more common on the side of the tongue.
• Inner cheek cancer  : affects the inner lining of the cheeks.
• Gum cancer  : affects the gums surrounding the teeth.
• Cancer of the floor of the mouth  : affects the area under the tongue.

Symptoms of oral cancer

In its early stages, oral cancer may not present any noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect without a thorough examination. However, as the cancer progresses, the following symptoms may appear:

• Sores or blisters that do not heal on the lips or inside the mouth
• Swelling or enlargement of the mouth
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Loose teeth or jaw pain
• Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
• Earaches or pain in the neck area.
• Sudden weight loss
• Numbness in the lips, face, or neck.
• Red or white spots on the mouth or lips.
• Persistent sore throat or dry mouth

If any of these symptoms persist, it is important to consult a dentist or healthcare professional for an evaluation. Early detection is crucial for a better prognosis and higher survival rates.

Causes of oral cancer

Several factors contribute to the development of oral cancer, and the most common causes include:

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1. Tobacco use  : Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or smokeless tobacco significantly increases the risk of developing oral cancer. Approximately 80% of oral cancer cases are related to tobacco use.
2. Excessive alcohol consumption  : Drinking alcohol in large quantities increases the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)  : Certain strains of the HPV virus, particularly HPV-16, have been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer.
4. Poor diet and nutrition  : A diet lacking essential vitamins and nutrients, especially fruits and vegetables, can increase susceptibility to oral cancer.
5. Age  : Oral cancer is more common in older adults, particularly those over 50 years of age.
6. Family history  : A family history of cancer may increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.

Stages of oral cancer

Oral cancer progresses in stages, which helps determine the extent of the disease and guide treatment decisions. These stages include:

• Stage 1  : The tumor measures less than 1 inch and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage 2  : The tumor grows between 1 and 2 inches, but remains localized without spreading to the lymph nodes.
• Stage 3  : The tumor is larger than 2 inches and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes, but not to other parts of the body.
• Stage 4  : This is the most advanced stage, where the cancer has spread to surrounding tissues or other parts of the body, including distant organs.

The stage of the cancer helps determine the appropriate treatment options and also gives an idea of ​​the prognosis.

Treatment for oral cancer

Oral cancer can be treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer.

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1. Surgery  : In the early stages, surgery is the primary treatment. The tumor is surgically removed, and the affected part of the mouth is reconstructed. In more advanced stages, surgery may involve removing larger portions of the mouth or jaw.
2. Radiation therapy  : Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to attack and destroy cancer cells. This treatment may be used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells or to treat tumors that cannot be surgically removed.
3. Chemotherapy  : Chemotherapy uses anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is often combined with radiation therapy, especially in advanced cases, to increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
4. Targeted therapy  : This treatment focuses on specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells, helping to stop the growth and spread of the tumor.

In many cases, a combination of these treatments is used to achieve the best result.

Prevention and early detection

While certain risk factors for oral cancer, such as genetics or age, are beyond a person’s control, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk. The following measures are important for preventing oral cancer:

• Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products  : this is the most important preventive measure.
• Limit alcohol consumption  : Reducing alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of oral cancer.
• Follow a balanced diet  : a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of oral cancer.
• Regular dental checkups  : Regular visits to the dentist for oral exams can help detect early signs of oral cancer.
• HPV vaccine  : The HPV vaccine can help prevent certain strains of the virus that increase the risk of oral cancer.

Conclusion

Oral cancer is a serious but treatable condition if detected early. With appropriate lifestyle changes, regular checkups, and a preventative approach, the risk can be significantly reduced. If you experience symptoms such as persistent sores, pain, or changes in your mouth, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.