Oral cancer, also known as oral cavity cancer, is a serious condition affecting over 53,000 people in the United States each year, according to the American Cancer Society. This disease can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat, making early detection and treatment crucial for survival. Understanding oral cancer’s causes, symptoms, and treatments is essential for prevention and better outcomes.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is any cancer that develops in the mouth or throat tissues. It falls under a broader category of cancers called head and neck cancers. Nearly 90% of oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which start in the flat cells lining the mouth and throat. Early diagnosis is important since the survival rate drops significantly if the cancer spreads to other body parts.
Causes of Oral Cancers
Oral cancer has several potential causes, many of which are related to lifestyle choices. According to studies, nearly 75% of oral cancer cases are linked to tobacco and alcohol use.
Tobacco Use
Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, is the leading cause of oral cancer. Smokers are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers. Chewing tobacco, which directly contacts the mouth’s lining, increases the risk of cancers in the gums, lips, and cheeks. Quitting tobacco can drastically reduce your risk.
Alcohol Consumption
Heavy alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor for oral cancer. Around 30% of oral cancer cases are linked to excessive alcohol use. The combination of alcohol and tobacco use increases the risk of oral cancer even more.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
The human papillomavirus (HPV) has become an increasingly common cause of oral cancers, particularly in younger individuals. HPV is responsible for nearly 70% of oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the throat, tonsils, and back of the tongue). The virus is often spread through oral sex and can take years to develop into cancer.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene may not directly cause oral cancer, but it can contribute to chronic irritation in the mouth, which increases the risk. Maintaining a healthy oral care routine that includes brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly can help reduce your risk.
Sun Exposure
Prolonged sun exposure can cause cancers of the lips. Using lip balm with SPF or wearing a wide-brimmed hat can protect your lips from harmful UV rays. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk of developing lip cancer.
Other Risk Factors
Other risk factors for oral cancer include a diet low in fruits and vegetables, a weakened immune system, and a family history of cancer. People over the age of 40, particularly men, are more likely to develop oral cancer.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Recognizing the symptoms of oral cancer early can save lives. Unfortunately, many people don’t realise they have oral cancer until it has advanced to a later stage. Common symptoms of oral cancer include:
Persistent Sores
One of the most common symptoms of oral cancer is a sore in the mouth or on the lips that doesn’t heal within two weeks. This is often the first noticeable sign of cancer.
Lumps or Thickened Areas
Unexplained lumps, thickening, or rough spots in the mouth, gums, or throat can indicate oral cancer. These changes may feel unusual and should be examined by a healthcare professional.
White or Red Patches
White or red patches inside the mouth, tongue, or gums can be an early sign of oral cancer. These patches, known as leukoplakia or erythroplakia, may not cause discomfort, but a dentist or doctor should evaluate them.
Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing
Oral cancer can cause discomfort or pain when swallowing, chewing, or speaking. A persistent sore throat, feeling that something is stuck in your throat, or pain in the jaw or tongue are warning signs.
Ear Pain
While not common, ear pain without apparent ear infection can be linked to oral cancers. This is especially true if the pain is one-sided and persistent.
Unexplained Weight Loss
As with many types of cancer, unexplained weight loss can occur in individuals with oral cancer, if you notice weight loss alongside other symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice.
How Is Oral Cancer Diagnosed?
Dentists and doctors use several methods to diagnose oral cancer. Early detection plays a vital role in successful treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer is about 65%, but this rate is much higher if the cancer is caught early.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Many dentists perform oral cancer screenings as part of a regular dental check-up. During the screening, the dentist will check for any abnormalities, such as lumps, sores, or patches in the mouth. Some screenings involve special lights or dyes to highlight any potential cancerous areas.
Biopsy
If your dentist or doctor notices anything suspicious, they may recommend a biopsy. A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the affected area and testing it for cancer cells.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs may be used to determine if the cancer has spread to other areas, such as the lymph nodes. These tests help doctors stage the cancer, which is important for determining the best course of treatment.
Treatment Options for Oral Cancer
Treating oral cancer depends on the stage of the disease and its location. Early-stage oral cancers are highly treatable, with surgery being the most common method of treatment.
Surgery
Surgery is the most common treatment for oral cancers that haven’t spread to other areas. This involves removing the tumour and some of the surrounding tissue to ensure that all cancer cells are eliminated. In some cases, lymph nodes in the neck may also be removed if the cancer has spread.
To learn more about surgery for oral cavity and oral oropharyngeal cancer,
Radiation Therapy to Cure from Oral Cancers
Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. It can also be used as a standalone treatment for smaller tumours. Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It’s typically used in more advanced cases of oral cancer, especially if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy may be combined with radiation therapy to improve effectiveness.
Targeted Therapy
They targeted therapy drugs by attacking specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth. These drugs are often used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy to treat advanced oral cancers.
How to Prevent Oral Cancer?
In Closing of Oral Cancers: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
Oral cancer is a serious condition, but early detection and treatment greatly improve survival rates. Understanding the causes and symptoms of oral cancers, combined with lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and maintaining good oral hygiene, can reduce your risk. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection, and various treatment options are available to manage the disease. If you notice any signs of oral cancer, such as persistent sores or difficulty swallowing, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
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