Understanding Mouth Cancer: What You Need to Know
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is a serious disease that affects the tissues of the mouth and throat. It’s often grouped with cancers of the head and neck due to its location and treatment approach. This type of cancer typically develops in people over 40, with men being more susceptible than women.
In India alone, this year has seen over 77,000 new cases of mouth cancer, with more than 52,000 lives lost—a staggering statistic that highlights the importance of awareness and early detection.
Types of Mouth Cancer
Mouth cancer can affect various parts of the oral cavity, including:
- Lip Cancer
- Tongue Cancer
- Inner Cheek Cancer
- Gum Cancer
- Cancer of the Lower Mouth
If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, it’s crucial to consult your dentist without delay. Experts recommend getting your mouth checked at least twice a year, especially if you have risk factors like tobacco or alcohol use.
Early Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Mouth cancer can be sneaky in its early stages—often showing no clear symptoms. However, those who smoke or drink heavily should be especially vigilant. Here are the warning signs to never ignore:
- A sore or blister on the lips or inside the mouth that does not heal
- Unexplained swelling or lump in the mouth or neck
- Persistent bleeding in the mouth
- Loose teeth without obvious cause
- Difficulty or pain while swallowing
- Ear pain or persistent sore throat
- Sudden, unexplained weight loss
- Numbness in the lips, face, or neck
- Red or white patches inside the mouth or on the lips
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Dry mouth or tongue discomfort
Remember: While these symptoms don’t always mean cancer, ignoring them can be dangerous. If you experience any of these signs—especially if they linger or worsen—see your dentist or a mouth cancer specialist promptly.
What Causes Mouth Cancer?
Several lifestyle factors increase the risk of developing mouth cancer:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes is the leading cause. Chewing tobacco or any form of tobacco also greatly raises the risk.
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking compounds the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
Avoiding or quitting these habits can significantly reduce your chances of developing oral cancer.
Stages of Mouth Cancer and What They Mean
Mouth cancer progresses through stages that help doctors determine treatment options and prognosis:
- Stage 1: Tumor is less than 1 inch and has not spread to lymph nodes.
- Stage 2: Tumor grows to 1–2 inches but still hasn’t reached lymph nodes.
- Stage 3: Tumor is about 2 inches or smaller but has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage 4: Cancer has spread beyond the mouth to surrounding tissues, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body.
Early detection—ideally at stages 1 or 2—dramatically improves survival rates and treatment success.
Don’t Wait—Get Checked Today!
If you have any concerns or symptoms related to mouth cancer, don’t delay. Early consultation with a dentist or specialist can save lives. For expert care and guidance, you can consult Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, a leading mouth cancer specialist.
Your health matters—take action and protect yourself from mouth cancer.
