What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the oral cavity or throat. It can occur in areas such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat (pharynx). If not detected and treated early, oral cancer can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.

Types

The main types of oral cancer include:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The most common type of oral cancer, originating in the flat cells lining the mouth and throat.
• Verrucous Carcinoma: A slow-growing cancer that often appears as wart-like lesions in the mouth.
• Minor Salivary Gland Carcinomas: Cancers that develop in the salivary glands, including adenoid cystic carcinoma and mucoepidermoid carcinoma.
• Lymphomas: Cancers that occur in the lymphatic tissue of the tonsils or base of the tongue.

Symptoms

Symptoms of oral cancer may vary but can include:

• A sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Pain or difficulty swallowing
• A lump or thickening in the cheek
• Persistent sore throat
• Change in voice or difficulty speaking
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Numbness or loss of sensation in any part of the mouth
• Swelling in the jaw or neck
• Loose teeth without an apparent reason

If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, consult a healthcare professional.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of oral cancer is DNA mutations in oral cells, but several factors can increase the risk:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco is the leading risk factor for oral cancer.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking increases the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV, especially HPV-16, are linked to oral cancers.
• Excessive Sun Exposure: Increases the risk of cancer on the lips.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Chronic irritation from sharp teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or poor dental hygiene can increase risk.
• Age and Gender: Oral cancer is more common in men and in people over the age of 50.
• Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables can contribute to increased risk.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions or medications that suppress the immune system can increase vulnerability.

Stages of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is staged based on tumor size and spread:

• Stage 0: Abnormal cells are present but have not spread (carcinoma in situ).
• Stage I: A small tumor (2 cm or less) confined to the oral tissues.
• Stage II: A tumor larger than 2 cm but not larger than 4 cm and has not spread to lymph nodes.
• Stage III: A tumor larger than 4 cm or cancer that has spread to one lymph node on the same side as the tumor.
• Stage IV: Advanced cancer that has spread to other lymph nodes or distant parts of the body.

Diagnosis

To diagnose oral cancer, doctors may perform the following:

1. Physical Examination

A thorough examination of the mouth, throat, and neck to check for abnormalities.

2. Biopsy

Removing a small tissue sample from a suspicious area to test for cancer cells.

3. Imaging Tests

Tests like CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to determine the extent of cancer spread.

4. Endoscopy

A procedure using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the throat and mouth in detail.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the stage and location of oral cancer:

1. Surgery

Surgery to remove the tumor is often the primary treatment. It may involve removing part of the jaw or affected lymph nodes in advanced cases.

2. Radiation Therapy

High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells, often after surgery or as a standalone treatment for early-stage cancers.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells or stop their growth, often in combination with radiation therapy.

4. Targeted Therapy

Targeted drugs like cetuximab may be used for specific oral cancers that involve abnormal cell growth pathways.

5. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the immune system attack cancer cells and may be used for advanced or recurrent cases.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of oral cancer:

• Quit smoking and avoid all forms of tobacco.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Practice good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
• Protect lips from excessive sun exposure using sunscreen or lip balm with SPF.
• Get vaccinated against HPV.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion

Oral cancer can have serious consequences, but early detection and treatment can improve outcomes significantly. Regular dental check-ups, awareness of symptoms, and a healthy lifestyle are key to reducing risk and ensuring early diagnosis.