Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the mouth and can affect several different areas of the oral cavity.
Being aware of early symptoms and understanding the risk factors can be important, according to Mayo Clinic.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is the growth of cancerous cells that begins in the mouth.
It is classified as a head and neck cancer and is often treated in the same way as other cancers in this region.
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Where can oral cancer develop?
Oral cancer can develop on the lips, gums, tongue, the inner cheeks, the roof of the mouth, or the floor of the mouth.
Oral cancer often begins in specific cells
Most cases start in the thin, flat cells that line the lips and the inside of the mouth.
This type of cancer is known as squamous cell carcinoma.
Sores that do not heal
A sore on the lip or inside the mouth that does not heal may be a sign of oral cancer.
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White or red patches
Changes in the lining of the mouth, such as white or red patches, may be a symptom of the disease.
Loose teeth can be a warning sign
Oral cancer may cause teeth to become loose.
Lump or swelling in the mouth
A lump or other abnormal growth inside the mouth may be a possible symptom of oral cancer.
Pain in the mouth or ear
Oral cancer can cause pain in the mouth and, in some cases, ear pain.
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Difficulty swallowing
People with oral cancer may experience difficulty or pain when swallowing.
Changes in the cells' DNA
Oral cancer develops when cells in the lips or mouth undergo changes in their DNA.
These changes cause cancer cells to grow and divide more rapidly than normal cells.
The cancer can spread
Cancer cells can form a tumor that grows into healthy tissue. Over time, they may spread to other parts of the body.
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Tobacco increases the risk
All forms of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff, increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
Alcohol further increases the risk
Frequent and heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of oral cancer.
The risk becomes even greater when alcohol use is combined with tobacco use.
Sun exposure and HPV also play a role
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the lips can increase the risk of lip cancer.
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Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can also cause cellular changes that may develop into oral cancer.
How to reduce your risk
The risk of oral cancer may be reduced by avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, protecting the lips from excessive sun exposure, considering HPV vaccination after consulting a healthcare professional, and having regular check-ups with a doctor or dentist.