Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx. Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early.
Oral cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the mouth or throat, forming tumors. If left untreated, the cancerous cells can spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, and other parts of the body.
Key Points:
Can affect any part of the oral cavity and oropharynx.
Early detection significantly improves treatment success.
Often linked to tobacco and alcohol use.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection increases risk.
More common in men and individuals over 40.
The exact cause of oral cancer is not always clear, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco increases the risk significantly.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol use, especially combined with tobacco, raises the risk.
HPV Infection: Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, are linked to oral cancer.
Excessive Sun Exposure: Prolonged UV exposure can lead to lip cancer.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Chronic gum disease and neglected dental care may contribute.
Dietary Deficiencies: Lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet may elevate risk.
Weakened Immune System: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS can make individuals more susceptible.
Family History: A genetic predisposition may increase susceptibility.
Age and Gender: More common in men and those over 40.
Early signs of oral cancer can be subtle, making regular check-ups essential for early detection.
Persistent sores or ulcers that do not heal.
Red or white patches inside the mouth.
Pain or difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking.
Lump or thickening in the cheek or neck.
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
Numbness or loss of feeling in the mouth or lips.
Chronic sore throat or hoarseness.
Ear pain without infection.
Loose teeth or dentures not fitting properly.
Weight loss without a known cause.
Oral cancers are classified based on the type of cells involved.
Accounts for over 90% of oral cancer cases.
Originates in the flat, thin cells lining the oral cavity.
A slow-growing type of squamous cell cancer.
Less likely to spread to other parts of the body.
Includes adenocarcinomas, mucoepidermoid carcinomas, and others.
Develops in the salivary glands of the mouth and throat.
Originates in the lymphoid tissue of the tonsils or base of the tongue.
Develops in connective tissues such as muscles, blood vessels, or nerves in the oral cavity.
Oral cancer is often diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and diagnostic tests.
Physical Examination: A doctor or dentist checks for abnormalities in the oral cavity.
Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken and examined for cancerous cells.
Imaging Tests:
X-rays: Identify abnormalities in the jaw and chest.
CT Scan/MRI: Provide detailed images of tumors and their spread.
PET Scan: Helps detect cancer spread to distant organs.
Endoscopy: A small camera is used to examine deeper areas of the throat.
HPV Testing: If HPV is suspected, testing for specific strains may be conducted.
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, location, and overall health of the patient.
Tumor Resection: Removal of the tumor and surrounding tissues.
Neck Dissection: Removal of affected lymph nodes if cancer has spread.
Reconstructive Surgery: Restores function and appearance after tumor removal.
Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
Often combined with surgery or chemotherapy.
Can be external beam radiation or brachytherapy (internal radiation).
Uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
Typically used for advanced cases or in combination with radiation.
Drugs like cetuximab target specific cancer cell proteins.
Less toxic than chemotherapy and effective for certain cases.
Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Drugs like pembrolizumab may be used for HPV-related oral cancer.
Focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.
Includes pain management, speech therapy, and dietary support.
The prognosis for oral cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis and response to treatment.
Localized cancer (early-stage): 5-year survival rate of 85%.
Regional spread (lymph nodes involved): 5-year survival rate drops to 65%.
Distant metastasis (spread to distant organs): 5-year survival rate is less than 40%.
Early Detection: Better outcomes if caught early.
Treatment Response: Effectiveness of surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
HPV Status: HPV-related cancers often respond better to treatment.
Overall Health: Age, immune system function, and co-existing conditions.
Lifestyle Changes: Stopping tobacco and alcohol improves survival chances.
Although oral cancer cannot always be prevented, certain steps can significantly reduce risk.
Avoid tobacco products in all forms.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Get vaccinated against HPV.
Maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Protect lips from excessive sun exposure using lip balm with SPF.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Be aware of any persistent oral changes and seek medical attention early
Managing oral cancer requires lifestyle adjustments and emotional support.
Regular follow-ups to monitor recurrence.
Nutritional support for maintaining strength.
Speech therapy if surgery affects communication.
Psychological counseling for emotional well-being.
Support groups for patients and caregivers.