What are the signs and symptoms of oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of mouth cancer that is caused due to the growth of cancerous tissues in the oral cavity. It can occur in any parts that make up the mouth, or oral cavity- such as on the surface of the tongue, in the lips or gums or tongue, inside the cheek, in salivary glands, or in the roof and floor of the mouth. World Oral Health Day (WOHD) marked each year on March 20 stresses the importance of good oral health which is vital to overall health and well-being.

Studies have shown that bad oral hygiene habits can lead to major health problems, including mouth cancer. This means poor oral hygiene is not just restricted to bad breath and cavities. Like other cancers, the exact cause of mouth cancer is not known, yet, cancers form when a genetic mutation triggers cells on the lips or in the mouth to grow without control. Tobacco use and heavy alcohol use are the main risk factors for oral cancer.

Other factors that may contribute to the development of mouth cancer are exposure to certain chemicals, excessive sun exposure to your lips, a weakened immune system, human papillomavirus (HPV), a family history of oral cancer, etc.


What are the signs and symptoms of oral cancer?
Signs and symptoms of mouth cancer may include the following:

Pain when swallowing
Swelling in the mouth that lasts for more than three weeks
Mouth ulcers or sores that do not heal
Loose teeth with no apparent reason
Unusual changes in sense of taste
A white or reddish patch on the inside of the mouth
A growth or lump inside your mouth
Unexplained weight loss
You must consult a doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis of oral cancer helps in its effectiveness of the treatment, improving your chance of survival. Treatment for oral cancer depends on the location and stage of the cancer, patient’s general health, etc. The main treatments are surgery and radiation therapy. In some cases, chemotherapy may be required.

Can oral cancer be prevented?
While there’s no proven way to prevent oral cancer, the golden key to the prevention of oral cancer is to not use tobacco. You can certainly reduce your risk by making changes in your lifestyle, such as -


Eating a healthy diet and avoiding or limiting the intake of junk foods, saturated fats, and processed meats.
Stop using tobacco or quit immediately.
Avoid excessive sun exposure to your lips.
Drink alcohol in moderation, if you do drink.
Make a point to visit your dentist regularly.
Studies have found that the chance of developing cancer of all types is lower among people who eat a healthy diet consisting of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, small amounts of lean animal or plant-based protein, and stay active by making regular exercise as part of their daily routine.