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Things You Should Know About Lip & Oral Cancer
Lip and oral cancer refer to cancers that develop in the lips, mouth, tongue, cheeks, palate, floor of the mouth, throat (pharynx), sinuses, and the salivary glands. Here are some important things to know about lip and oral cancer:
Risk Factors:
- Tobacco Use: This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco. Tobacco contains carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) that can cause mutations in the cells of the mouth and lips.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking damages the cells in the mouth, making them more likely to become cancerous. The risk increases significantly if taken with tobacco.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Although most cases of HPV do not cause cancer, some high-risk strains such as HPV16 can cause oral cancer. It’s usually transmitted through intimate contact.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can lead to lip cancer. The lower lip is more commonly affected due to its greater exposure to sunlight.
- Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables means low in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage. This can increase the risk of oral cancer.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Persistent Sore or Ulcer: This can be painless but doesn’t heal within a few weeks.
- Red or White Patches: These patches may be flat or slightly raised and can occur anywhere in the mouth.
- Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain or discomfort should be evaluated, especially during swallowing or chewing.
- Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: This can indicate a tumour’s presence, affecting the normal function of the mouth.
- Swelling or Lumps: These can be felt in the mouth, throat, or neck and may be accompanied by pain or tenderness.
- Voice or Speech Changes: Depending on the location and size of the tumour, changes in voice or speech may occur.
Early Detection is Crucial:
Oral cancer, if detected early, is highly treatable. Regular dental check-ups can aid in early detection.
Dentists and oral health professionals often look for signs of oral cancer.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a biopsy, where a small piece of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.
Staging:
Staging helps determine the extent and spread of cancer. It influences the treatment plan.
Stages range from I (beginning) to IV (moderate).
Treatment Options:
- Surgery: This is often the primary treatment for oral cancer. It involves removing the cancerous tissue. Depending on the stage and location of the cancer, surgery may involve removing a small portion of tissue or more extensive procedures, such as a partial or complete jaw resection.
- Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells. It very well may be utilized alone or mixed with different medicines.
- Chemotherapy: Medicines kill cancer cells or break their development. Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery or in combination with radiation therapy.
- Targeted Therapy: Targets exact particles involved in cancer growth.
- Immunotherapy: This treatment helps stimulate the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Rehabilitation:
After treatment, patients may need rehabilitation for speaking, swallowing, and other functions affected by the cancer and its treatment. Speech therapists and other rehabilitation specialists are crucial in helping patients regain these functions.
Prognosis:
The prognosis depends on various factors including the stage, location, type of cancer, overall health of the patient, and response to treatment. Early detection and treatment lead to better outcomes.
Prevention:
Avoiding tobacco products and moderate alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk. Protecting the lips from excessive sun exposure is important, especially in sunny climates.
Follow-Up Care:
Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor for any signs of recurrence or new cancers. These appointments may include physical examinations, imaging tests, and other assessments.
Support and Resources:
Support groups, counselling, and resources are available for patients and their families. Remember, this information is overall and not additional for skilled medical advice. If you have concerns about lip or oral cancer, please consult a healthcare provider.