Oral cancer is a dangerous disease that affects millions of people all over the world.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are around 600,000 new cases of oral cancer each year, and more than 350,000 people die from the disease every year. One of the most effective preventive measures to reduce the risk of oral cancer is the removal of the tongue.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the roof and floor of the mouth. The primary cause of oral cancer is the consumption of tobacco and alcohol.

Other factors that can increase the risk of oral cancer include HPV infection, poor diet, sun exposure, and a weakened immune system.

How is oral cancer diagnosed?

The diagnosis of oral cancer usually involves a physical examination of the mouth and throat. The doctor may use a special device called a scope to look for any abnormal growths or lesions in the mouth.

A biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of oral cancer.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

The early symptoms of oral cancer include a sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, and a lump or thicken in the mouth or on the neck.

As the cancer progresses, the symptoms may include bleeding in the mouth, numbness or tingling in the mouth or tongue, and difficulty in speaking and eating.

What is the treatment for oral cancer?

The treatment for oral cancer depends on the stage of cancer and the location of the tumor. The primary treatment options for oral cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used.

However, none of the treatments can guarantee a complete cure for oral cancer.

What is the role of the tongue in oral cancer?

The tongue is a vital organ in the mouth, and it plays a significant role in speech, chewing, and swallowing. The tongue is also one of the most common sites for oral cancer.

The tongue cancer can spread rapidly to other parts of the mouth, throat, and neck, making it difficult to treat.

Why remove the tongue in oral cancer?

Removing the tongue is an extreme measure in the treatment of oral cancer. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to remove the tongue to prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

The surgery to remove the tongue is called a glossectomy.

What are the benefits of removing the tongue in oral cancer?

The benefits of removing the tongue in oral cancer include:.

Reducing the risk of cancer spreading to other parts of the body.
Eliminating the need for additional treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.
Improving the quality of life for the patient.

What are the risks of removing the tongue in oral cancer?

The risks of removing the tongue in oral cancer include:.

Difficulty in speaking, chewing and swallowing.
Loss of taste sensation.
Pain, swelling, and bleeding.
Wound infections and complications during the surgery.

: Conclusion

Oral cancer is a life-threatening disease that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Removing the tongue is an effective preventive action to reduce the risk of cancer spreading to other parts of the body.

However, it is important to consider the risks and benefits of removing the tongue before undergoing the surgery.