Oral cancers can involve lips, gums, tongue, cheeks and floor/roof of the mouth. Also, it can involve the bones of the upper/lower jaw, and can spread to lymph nodes in the neck, or they can spread elsewhere in the body.
What causes oral cancer ?
Tobacco and alcohol use are commonest risk factors. Risks are even greater for people who use both. All forms of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, put users at risk of cancer. Persistent viral (Human papillomavirus) infections may also lead
to oral cancer.
What are the symptoms of oral cancer ?
1. Red or white patches in the mouth. Mouth sores/ulcers that do not heal.
2. Unexplained lump in the neck, throat or floor of the mouth.
3. Difficulty or discomfort in swallowing. Pain and tenderness in teeth or gums.
Whom should I see if I think I might have oral cancer ?
If you have a symptom of oral cancer that lasts longer than two weeks, visit a Surgical Oncologist.
How is oral cancer treated ?
Oral cancer is usually first treated with surgery. Radiation and/or chemotherapy therapy are sometimes recommended after surgery depending on the exact nature of the cancer.
