Oral Cancer: Overview, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Oral Cancer: Overview, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
OVERVIEW OF ORAL (MOUTH) CANCER
Oral cancers can develop in the mouth or within the oral cavity. The cells in the mouth and cavity are the main cause of cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common form. The oral cavity is a region of the Head & Neck that is involved in daily activities such as eating, drinking, speaking, etc. Therefore, it is important to get early treatment and diagnosis for cancer prevention and side effects.
Is ORAL CANCER A COMMON IN INDIA
The incidence of cancer has increased in the developing world. The most common form of cancer in India is found in the oral cavity. Contrary to the West, oral cancer is a serious public health issue in India. It ranks among the top three cancers in India. Oral cancers account for 30% of all cancers in India. It affects 20 percent of the 1,00,000. It is the 5th most prevalent cancer in Indian women and the 6th most common among Indian men.
Is ORAL CANCER a LIFE-RELATED DISEASE
Because oral cancer can be prevented, it is often caused by unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as smoking and drinking alcohol. Both alcohol and tobacco are carcinogenic. This means that they contain chemicals which can cause DNA damage and cancer. The risk of developing mouth cancer is increased by smoking and drinking alcohol. Combining smoking and alcohol increases the risk.
You can choose to smoke or un-smoke your tobacco. India is a country that is very fond of the unsmoked version of tobacco consumption. This includes chewing betel nuts, with or without additional tobacco, and using various commercially available tobacco products. In 90% of cases, oral cancer is caused by alcohol and tobacco use. Even patients with no habits can develop oral cancer. It can also be caused by chronic irritation from sharp teeth/dentures, HPV infection, poor nutrition, and/or poor dental hygiene.
HOW TO DETECT CANCERS FROM ORAL CAVITY
More than 60% of Indian oral cancer patients are in advanced stages (Stage III,IV). Advanced cancers have a cure rate of around 20-40% compared to the rates for early-stage cancers (Stage II, II), which is higher than 80%.
The oral cavity can be easily accessed for self-examination and assessment by professionals. These lesions can be diagnosed at a minimal cost by a simple exam with light or a biopsy that can easily be done in the clinic.
signs of oral cancer are persistent pain, bleeding, swelling, loss of appetite, loose teeth, or a foul odor in the oral cavity.
TREATMENT OPTIONS - ORAL CANCERS
There are three main treatments for cancer: Radiation, surgery and chemotherapy. Surgery is the most preferred treatment option. Surgery alone is used to treat early-stage cancers (I, II). Advanced stage (III,IV) cancers will require adjuvant therapy. This can be in the form of radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy.
Recent advances in surgery have allowed for the replacement of tissue that has been lost during surgery to improve speech, swallowing, and cosmesis.
The key to the best outcome is rehabilitation after treatment for oral cavity cancer. To help patients following treatment, a team of specialists includes a dentist, speech therapist, physiotherapist, dietician, and yoga therapist.
Dr K Srinivasa Rao is one of the top Best Radiation Oncologists in Hyderabad with vast experience and knowledge in treating all kinds of Cancers with absolute competence.
He has over 25 years of experience, and he has worked in the Radiation Oncology department at the most prestigious and well-known hospitals worldwide.
