Health

Oral Cancer: A Growing Threat

Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the world, with a growing number of cases being reported each year. Read on to find out what causes oral cancer, its symptoms, and how to treat it by victorianicholson
Estimated reading time: 3 min 33 sec
Oral Cancer: A Growing Threat Photo by Klaus Nielsen on Pexels

According to studies, oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the world, with a growing number of cases being reported each year. The term “oral cancer” refers to any cancer that develops in the mouth or throat.

The risk of developing oral cancer is higher in individuals who smoke, consume alcohol excessively, have a poor diet, and have an HPV infection.

Causes of Oral Cancer

There are various causes of oral cancer, some of which include:.

Smoking and Tobacco use

Smoking and tobacco use are the most common causes of oral cancer. The use of tobacco products results in harmful chemicals being produced, which can cause the cells in the mouth to mutate and develop cancer.

The risk of developing oral cancer is higher in heavy smokers and tobacco users.

Excessive Consumption of Alcohol

Heavy alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can damage the cells in the mouth and cause them to mutate and develop cancer.

The risk of developing oral cancer is higher in individuals who consume alcohol excessively and smoke.

Poor Diet

A poor diet can also increase the risk of developing oral cancer. A diet that lacks sufficient nutrients weakens the immune system and makes it more difficult for the body to fight cancer.

A diet that is high in processed foods and low in fruits and vegetables can also increase the risk of oral cancer.

HPV Infection

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that increases the risk of developing cancer in the mouth and throat. HPV can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the mouth and throat, leading to cancer.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

The following are common symptoms associated with oral cancer:.

Sore or Lump in the Mouth

A sore or lump in the mouth that persists for weeks or months can be an early sign of oral cancer. Such lumps or sores can appear on the gums, tongue, lips, or cheeks. They can be painful, or they may not cause any pain at all.

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Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is another common symptom of oral cancer. This can occur due to a tumor in the throat blocking the passage of food to the stomach.

Changes in Speech

Oral cancer can affect the way a person speaks, causing difficulty in pronunciation and enunciation. This can be caused by a tumor blocking the throat or due to nerve damage in the mouth.

Bleeding in the Mouth

Bleeding in the mouth is another symptom of oral cancer, especially if it does not stop even after a few days of treatment.

Treatment for Oral Cancer

Treatment for oral cancer depends on various factors such as the stage and extent of the cancer. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are the primary forms of treatment for oral cancer.

In cases where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, targeted therapy and immunotherapy can be used.

Preventive Measures

Prevention is better than cure, and taking the following measures can help reduce the risk of developing oral cancer:.

Avoiding Smoking and Tobacco Use

The risk of developing oral cancer can be significantly reduced by quitting smoking and tobacco use. Additionally, individuals should avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

Moderating Alcohol Consumption

Individuals who consume alcohol regularly should aim to moderate their intake. The recommended alcohol consumption limit is one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet

A diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of developing oral cancer. Such a diet provides the body with essential nutrients that strengthen the immune system and prevent mutations in the cells of the mouth and throat.

Regular Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups can help detect oral cancer early on, making it easier to treat. Individuals should aim to have a dental checkup at least once a year and report any unusual symptoms to their dentist.

Conclusion

Oral cancer is a growing threat that can result in life-threatening complications. The causes of oral cancer are numerous, and individuals should aim to take preventive measures to reduce the risk.

Early detection and treatment can improve the chances of managing oral cancer successfully.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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