Do you smoke? Frequently consume alcohol? You may unknowingly be increasing your chances to develop oral cancer. In this article we will discuss some of the common questions asked relating to oral cancer and how you can prevent it.
Mouth cancer commonly known as oral cancer does not take the spotlight as much as breast or prostate cancer, but it is the 5th most common cancer in males, and the 10th most common cancer in females in South Africa. To make matters worse we are starting to see an increase of oral cancer in patients younger than 20 years, as much as 15% each year.
Oral cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of the cells in the mouth, this uncontrolled growth can be triggered by environmental factors or be due to genetics.
One of the common questions asked is what does it look like and how can I identify it?
Oral cancer can present with multiple signs and symptoms, they include:
-A white or red patch in the mouth that does not rub off.
-An ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within 2 weeks.
-Pain or difficulty swallowing or chewing.
-Any lumps in the mouth.
-Ear pain.
-A change in the way your teeth or dentures fit together.
-Unexplained numbness, loss of feeling or a mouth that bleeds easily and does not heal within 2 weeks.
Any of the above mentioned signs do not definitely signify oral cancer, they could be precancerous lesions or due to other conditions such as an allergy.
There are a few high risk areas in the mouth where oral cancer usually develops and it is important to know these areas and frequently screen those areas for any chances, these areas include the inside the cheeks, under the tongue at the back of the tongue and on the sides of the tongue.
How does it develop and what causes it?
Oral cancer is caused by abnormal cell growth due to mutations in the DNA of our cells, but it is believed that there are a few factors that can trigger these DNA mutations.
-Tobacco: this is probably one of the biggest causes of oral cancer, Tobacco usage in any form whether smoking or snuff usage will increase your chances of developing oral cancer.
-Alcohol usage: excessive alcohol usage puts you at an increased risk of developing oral cancer.
-Age: your chances of developing oral cancer increases with your age.
-Sex: Males have a higher chance of developing oral cancer than females.
-Human Papilloma virus (HPV): This virus plays a big role in the development of oral cancer and is transmitted sexually.
Some of the above mentioned triggers cannot be controlled such as age or gender, but it is important to know the ones we can control and limit our exposure to these triggers on a daily basis.
It is also important to adapt a healthier lifestyle in order to decrease the chances of developing oral cancer.
This can be done by limiting the amount of alcohol we consume, avoiding tobacco usage or trying to stop tobacco usage, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and good oral hygiene. Most importantly regularly visiting the dentist for checkups.
How can you take an active role in detecting oral cancer early?
With oral cancer early detection is key and you can take an active role in detecting oral cancer early by conducting a self-exam once a month. This you can do by using a bright light and a mirror.
Start by looking and feeling your gums and lips, put your head back and evaluate the roof of your mouth. pull your cheeks out and look on the inside of your cheeks. Stick out your tongue and look at all the surfaces. Examine the floor of your mouth and back of your throat. If you do pick up any unusual looking lesions or a white or red area that does not seem to disappear contact your dentist immediately!
Remember to visit your dentist for regular oral cancer screening exams.
It is important to be aware of any changes in your mouth, and I urge anyone who might suspect an abnormal lesion or bump, or anyone who just wants a routine oral cancer screening to feel free to please consult their dentist about it or visit us at Parys District Hospital as soon as possible.
Early detection is key, and it might save your life!
