Oral cancer refers to malignant tumors that develop in the mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat (oropharynx). Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, yet there are no standardized routine screening tests for oral cancer. Instead, it is often identified during routine dental check-ups or through self-examination.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer symptoms can be subtle in the early stages but may progress to include:

• Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal within two weeks.
• Lump or swelling in the neck or jaw.
• Loose teeth or changes in how dentures fit.
• Pain, difficulty, or discomfort while chewing or swallowing.
• Changes in voice or speech difficulty.
• Unexplained bleeding or numbness in the mouth, lips, or tongue.
• White, red, or mixed patches (leukoplakia, erythroplakia, or erythroleukoplakia) on the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks.
• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness.
• Ear pain without an ear infection.
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue.

If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, consult a healthcare provider or dentist immediately for further evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

Several factors contribute to the development of oral cancer:

1. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

• Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes and chewing tobacco are the leading causes of oral cancer.
• Alcohol Consumption: Chronic heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk significantly, particularly in combination with tobacco use.
• Areca (Betel) Nut Chewing: Common in some Asian populations, betel nut chewing has a strong link to oral cancers.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Chronic irritation from poor dental hygiene, ill-fitting dentures, or gum disease may contribute to cancer development.
• UV Radiation Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight increases the risk of lip cancers.

2. Viral and Infectious Factors

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV-16, a high-risk strain, is strongly linked to oropharyngeal cancers. Vaccination against HPV can reduce the risk.
• Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Though primarily linked to nasopharyngeal carcinoma, EBV may play a role in some oral cancers.

Preventing Oral Cancer

Prevention plays a crucial role in reducing the incidence of oral cancer. You can lower your risk by:

1. Avoiding Tobacco and Alcohol

• Quit smoking: Tobacco use is responsible for up to 60% of oral cancers in certain regions.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake is associated with about 30% of oral cancers.

2. Protecting Against HPV and Other Infections

• Get vaccinated against HPV (especially HPV-16), which is linked to oropharyngeal cancer.
• Practice safe oral hygiene and sexual practices to reduce HPV transmission risk.

3. Sun Protection for Lip Cancer

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on your lips and wear a wide-brimmed hat if exposed to sunlight for prolonged periods.

• Apply lip balm with SPF 30+, especially when the UV index is 3 or above.

4. Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene and Regular Check-Ups

• Brush twice a day and floss daily to maintain oral health.
• High-risk individuals must visit a dentist every 6 months for oral exams, as they can detect early changes before cancer develops.
• Ensure dentures fit properly to avoid chronic irritation.

5. Healthy Diet and Nutrition

• A diet rich in fruits and vegetables (high in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E) can help reduce cancer risk.
• Avoid processed meats and high-sugar diets, which may contribute to cancer risk.

Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Since there are no standardized routine screening tests for oral cancer, self-examinations and regular dental visits are essential.

1. Self-Examination for Oral Cancer

Once a month, perform a self-exam in front of a mirror:

• Look for unusual sores, patches, or lumps in the mouth, lips, and tongue.
• Check the roof and floor of the mouth for any abnormalities.
• Feel for swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

If you notice any persistent abnormalities, consult a dentist or doctor promptly.

2. Professional Screening

• Dentists and oral surgeons can identify early-stage lesions and conduct biopsies if needed.
• Adjunctive screening tools, such as fluorescence imaging or toluidine blue staining, can enhance early detection.

Oral cancer is a preventable disease with modifiable risk factors. By making lifestyle changes, maintaining good oral health, and ensuring early detection, you can significantly lower your risk. Regular dental check-ups, self-examinations, and a healthy lifestyle are key to preventing and managing oral cancer effectively. Stay proactive and take charge of your oral health!