According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 10 million people die from cancer each year worldwide. In India, the incidence of cancer is constantly increasing. A scientific article published in the National Library of Medicine states that, although between 5% and 10% of cancers are related to genetic factors, the majority are associated with lifestyle habits. Smoking, chewing tobacco, gutkha and consuming alcohol are among the major risk factors for oral cancer. Experts say early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. (AI Image)
Speaking to News18 Hindi, Dr Aditya Sarin, Associate Consultant, Cancer Department, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, explained that oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, can develop on the tongue, gums, inner lips, cheeks, floor of the mouth and under the tongue. Cancer that affects the throat area is known as oropharyngeal cancer. The most common type of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which accounts for approximately 9 out of 10 cases of oral cancer. (AI Image)
According to Dr. Sarin, one of the first warning signs is difficulty swallowing food. Persistent mouth ulcers or sores that do not heal despite treatment should also be taken seriously. People who use tobacco may notice changes such as persistent blisters inside the mouth and discoloration of the teeth. Oral cancer may also become increasingly painful and may not improve with medication. (AI Image)
Additional symptoms may include lumps in the neck or throat, loose teeth or gums, numbness of the lips or tongue, and the appearance of white or red spots inside the mouth or on the tongue. Some people may also experience changes in their voice. According to Dr Sarin, tobacco use, smoking and gutkha are responsible for most cases, while alcohol consumption and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can also increase the risk. (AI Image)
Although tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption remain the biggest risk factors, oral cancer can also occur in people without these habits. According to the Mayo Clinic, oral cancer develops when mutations occur in the DNA of cells in the mouth or lips, causing abnormal cells to multiply while healthy cells die. The disease most commonly begins in the thin, flat squamous cells that line the lips and the inside of the mouth. (AI Image)
While not all cases can be prevented, experts say that reducing known risk factors can reduce the chances of developing oral cancer. Recommended preventive measures include quitting smoking and chewing tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals around the mouth, maintaining a balanced diet, and visiting the dentist regularly for oral exams. (AI Image)
