Everything You Need to Know About Mouth Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors

Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the oral cavity, which includes the lips, cheeks, tongue, and throat. In India, it is the most prevalent type of cancer, accounting for 50–70% of total cancer mortality rates, and has the highest incidence among Asian countries. Globally, it ranks as the sixth most common cancer, with India contributing nearly one-third of the total burden. Every year, India reports around 77,000 new cases and approximately 52,000 deaths, making it a significant public health concern.

Understanding Mouth Cancer

Mouth cancer can manifest as small, unusual growths or sores in various areas of the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, sinuses, and the base of the mouth. Unfortunately, late detection of mouth cancer significantly reduces the chances of successful treatment, with five-year survival rates plummeting to as low as 20% in advanced stages.

The most common form of mouth cancer is oral squamous cell carcinoma, which predominantly affects the oral cavity. The incidence of this cancer varies globally, with higher rates observed in regions like India, France, Brazil, and Eastern Europe. Factors such as age, with a peak incidence around 70–79 years, and gender, with men being two to six times more likely to develop mouth cancer than women, play crucial roles in its prevalence. This disparity is primarily attributed to higher rates of alcohol and tobacco consumption among men.

Key Risk Factors for Mouth Cancer

Several risk factors contribute to the development of mouth cancer:

Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes significantly increases the risk. Additionally, using smokeless tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco, also poses a threat.

Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake is a major risk factor.

Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting oral health can contribute to the development of cancerous lesions.

Viral Infections: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to various cancers, including mouth cancer.

Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure without lip protection can lead to cancer in the lips.

Family History: A family history of oral cancer increases the risk.

It is important to note that approximately 25% of individuals diagnosed with oral cancer do not engage in any of these high-risk behaviors.

Common Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

Mouth cancer presents a range of signs and symptoms that are often mistaken for typical oral issues. These include:

Persistent Sores: Sores on the lip or inside the mouth that bleed easily and do not heal within two weeks.

White or Red Patches: Leukoplakia (white patches), erythroplakia (red patches), and erythroleukoplakia (red and white patches) are indicative of precancerous conditions.

Rough Spots: Rough or crusty areas on the gums or inside the mouth.

Unexplained Bleeding: Areas in the mouth that bleed without an obvious cause.

Numbness or Pain: Numbness, pain, or tenderness in the face, neck, or mouth without an identifiable cause.

Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: Trouble speaking or moving the jaw or tongue.

Unintended Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without trying.

Persistent Bad Breath: Ongoing bad breath that does not improve with oral hygiene.

How Mouth Cancer Affects Your Body

Mouth cancer can have debilitating effects on your oral cavity and oropharynx (the area at the back of the mouth that connects to the throat). The impact can hinder basic activities such as chewing, swallowing, speaking, and drinking, leading to a decreased quality of life. In later stages, the cancer may metastasize to other parts of the body, causing more severe health issues.

Treatment Options for Mouth Cancer

Treatment for mouth cancer depends on various factors, including the cancer's location and stage, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences. Common treatment modalities include:

1. Surgery

Tumor Removal: Involves excising the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue. Smaller cancers may require minor surgery, while larger tumors may necessitate extensive procedures, including the removal of parts of the jaw or tongue.

Neck Dissection: If cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the neck, this surgery removes affected lymph nodes and surrounding tissue.

Reconstructive Surgery: After tumor removal, reconstructive surgery may restore mouth function for speaking and eating.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams (like X-rays and protons) to kill cancer cells. It can be delivered externally or internally and is often used in conjunction with surgery or chemotherapy.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy employs powerful chemicals to kill cancer cells and may be used alone or in combination with other treatments. It can enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy.

4. Targeted Drug Therapy

Targeted drugs specifically attack cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. For example, Cetuximab (Erbitux) interferes with proteins in cancer cells to inhibit their growth.

5. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, often used for advanced or treatment-resistant cases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is mouth cancer curable?
Yes, oral cancer is treatable if diagnosed early. Efforts continue to improve understanding and treatment options.

What treatments kill mouth cancer cells?
Most patients with early-stage oral cancers respond well to surgery and/or radiation therapy, with chemoradiation being another effective option.

What are five signs of oral cancer?
Five signs include persistent sores, white or red patches, unexplained bleeding, numbness or pain in the mouth, and difficulty chewing or swallowing.

What does Stage 1 oral cancer look like?
Stage 1 oral cancer may present as rough, white or red patches, hard lumps, or bumpy areas in the mouth.

Conclusion

Mouth cancer poses a significant health challenge, particularly in India. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial for improving survival rates and quality of life. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, consult a healthcare professional promptly to discuss your concerns. Raising awareness about mouth cancer can help in its prevention and early treatment, ultimately saving lives.