Mouth (oral) cancer, a type of head-and-neck cancer, is most commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 40. In India alone, around 77,000 new cases and over 52,000 deaths have been reported this year. Key risk factors include tobacco use (smoked or chewed), excessive alcohol, betel nut consumption, and sun exposure to the lips.
Early detection is crucial, as many cases are only found after spreading to lymph nodes, lowering survival rates. However, when caught early, oral cancer can be highly curable. Common areas affected include the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and floor of the mouth.
Warning signs to watch for include persistent mouth sores, red or white patches, unexplained lumps, bleeding, numbness, or trouble swallowing. Individuals should have professional oral exams twice a year or sooner if symptoms appear.
Any lesion lasting more than two weeks should be evaluated by a dentist or cancer specialist. Experts like Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit offer tailored treatment plans based on tumor type and stage. Regular checkups and early intervention can dramatically improve outcomes and save lives.
