Oral Cancer is cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It belongs to a larger group of cancers called head and neck cancers. The disease is more likely to affect males than females. It is more common in men older than 40.

 

Causes

 

• Smoking and other tobacco use are linked to most cases of oral cancer. Heavy alcohol use also increases the risk for oral cancer.

• Poor nutrition, especially a diet low in fruits and vegetables
• Chewing quid of betel, a stimulant common in Asia
• Poor dental and oral hygiene

 

Symptoms

 

• A sore, irritation, lump or thick patch in your mouth, lip, or throat
• Red or white patched on the lining of your mouth or lips
• A lump in your neck
• Bad breath
• Pain or difficulty swallowing
• Numbness in your mouth or tongue

 

Who is at risk for oral cancer?

 

• Chewing betel nuts with or without added tobacco
• Chewing tobacco or other smokeless tobacco products
• Heavy alcohol use
• Poor dental and oral hygiene
• Swelling of your jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become comfortable

• Eating very overheated food e.g. Hotpot, deep-fry food
• Lack of Vitamins A

 

How is oral cancer diagnosed?

 

• X-ray to see if cancer cells have spread to the jaw, chest, or lungs
• A CT scan to reveal any tumors in your mouth, throat, neck, lungs, or elsewhere in your body
• A MRI scan to show a more accurate image of the head and neck, and determine the extent or stage of the cancer

 

Oral Cancer Prevention

 

Oral cancer are among the most preventable cancers. Some ways to minimise your risk of developing oral cancer includes:

 

• Avoid smoking and other tobacco use
• Limiting or avoiding alcohol use
• Eat a well-rounded, healthy diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables
• Visit a dentist regularly and practicing good oral hygiene

 

*The above information is for reference only, please consult your doctor for detail.