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Oral cancer is a critical health concern that affects thousands of people in India every year. It is among a third of cancer in India. This type of cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the tongue, gums, lips, and cheeks. Unfortunately, oral cancer is often not detected until it has progressed to a more advanced stage, making it more difficult to treat effectively.
Early detection of oral cancer is essential to improve treatment outcomes and increase survival rates. According to medical professionals, the survival rate for oral cancer can increase up to 90% when detected in the early stages. Therefore, it is critical to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms associated with oral cancer.
Several factors can contribute to the development of oral cancer, such as tobacco and alcohol use, exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV), and poor oral hygiene. It is vital to recognize the early signs of oral cancer, such as mouth sores, bleeding, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain, and seek medical attention promptly. In this article, we will discuss the importance of early detection and treatment of oral cancer. We will also offer practical advice on how to maintain good oral health and prevent oral cancer.
Importance of Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a significant health issue that affects many people in India each year. It can develop in any part of the mouth, including the tongue, gums, lips, and cheeks, and can have serious consequences if not detected early.
It's essential to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors associated with oral cancer to detect it early. Some symptoms include mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, persistent pain, and bleeding. Risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, exposure to HPV, and poor oral hygiene can increase the chances of developing oral cancer.
Early detection is crucial in improving treatment outcomes and increasing the chances of survival. When oral cancer is detected in its early stages, the treatment options are less invasive, and the chances of successful treatment are higher. To reduce the risk of developing oral cancer, individuals should maintain good oral hygiene, limit tobacco and alcohol use, and seek regular dental check-ups. Dentists can perform visual exams and tissue biopsies to detect oral cancer early and provide appropriate treatment. Consult only the best hospitals for oral cancer treatment in Mangalore.
Being aware of the symptoms and risk factors and seeking prompt medical attention can make all the difference in improving the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Early Warning Signs and Symptoms for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can be challenging to detect, but there are some early signs and symptoms that you can look out for. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible:
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Mouth sores or ulcers that don't go away after a few weeks.
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Red or white patches on your tongue, gums, or mouth lining.
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Difficulty swallowing or speaking.
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Persistent pain in your mouth, throat, or neck.
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A lump or thickening in your mouth or neck.
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Unexplained bleeding in your mouth.
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Numbness or tingling in your mouth or lips.
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Changes in the way your teeth fit together or dentures that no longer fit well.
Important Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
While anyone can develop oral cancer, there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease. One of the most significant risk factors for oral cancer is tobacco use. Smoking or using smokeless tobacco products can increase the risk of developing oral cancer by several times. Heavy alcohol consumption is also a significant risk factor for oral cancer. People who smoke and drink alcohol together have a much higher risk of developing the disease than those who only smoke or drink alcohol.
Other risk factors include:
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A family history of cancer.
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Exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV).
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Poor oral hygiene.
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A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables.
People who spend a lot of time in the sun, especially those who have fair skin, are also at an increased risk of developing lip cancer.
Treatment of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can be treated in different ways, depending on the stage and location of the cancer and the patient's overall health. The treatment options include:
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Surgery
Surgery is usually the first treatment option for oral cancer, and it involves removing the cancerous tumour and surrounding tissue, as well as any affected lymph nodes.
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Radiation therapy
.Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells, and it may be used in combination with chemotherapy or surgery to treat oral cancer.
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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is also often used with radiation therapy or surgery.
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Immunotherapy/ Targeted therapy
Immunotherapy is a newer type of cancer treatment that helps the body's immune system fight cancer cells, while targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific genes or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Palliative care is a type of supportive care that focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced or incurable cancer.
A team of healthcare professionals, including a Surgical oncologist, Radiation oncologist & Medical Oncologist will work together to develop the best treatment plan for each patient. Early detection and treatment of oral cancer can improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of survival.
Consult top oncologists in Mangalore for diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer.
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