Mouth/Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in India caused by excessive tobacco consumption and alcohol intake. In this type, cancerous cells develop in the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of the mouth, soft and hard palate, throat, or sinuses. Some rare cancers can also develop in the salivary glands, tonsils, or pharynx.
The symptoms of cancer may not be apparent initially. The following symptoms may, however, develop gradually:
- Pain or numbness in the face or neck
- Difficulty swallowing
- Problems in speech
- Change in voice
- A persistent mouth ulcer
- Difficulty in moving the jaw
- Loose teeth
- Persistent swelling of the jaw
- Sore throat
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Abrupt weight loss
The common causes include:
- Tobacco and alcohol use
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Gender: Men are more prone to oral cancer than women)
- Age: Oral cancers are more prevalent above the age of 40
- Poor nutrition
- Excess body weight
