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 Oral cancer, the sixth most common cancer, accounts for nearly 3.6 percent of all cancers diagnosed. |
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Oral Cancer Incidence
Oral cancer includes cancers of lips, tongue, buccal mucosa, floor of mouth, and pharynx. Older men, heavy users of alcohol and tobacco, and individuals exposed to repeated sun damage are most likely to contract oral cancer. Incidence of oral cancer rises steadily with age, reaching a peak in persons ages 65-74. However, oral cancer can and does develop in people of all ages, races, and lifestyle habits. Over 25% of all oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and who only drink alcohol occasionally (socially).
The mortality rate associated with oral cancer has not improved in recent decades. Though males are far more likely to get oral cancer than females, the percentage of females developing oral cancer is rising. The ratio of men to women is now about 2:1. Thirty years ago, 15% of all oral cancer patients were women; currently 33% of all oral cancer patients are women. This shift is related to an increase in smoking by women and to their longer life expectancy.
Fortunately, most oral lesions are not harmful. But a small number are dangerous, and if not identified early, may progress to a more advanced stage.
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Oral Cancer Causes
Scientists aren't sure of the exact cause. However, it is known that the carcinogens in tobacco products, alcohol and certain foods, as well as excessive exposure to the sun (especially as a child) have been found to increase the risk of developing oral cancer later in life. Risk factors for oral cancer may also be genetically inherited.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors:
- Cigarette, cigar, pipe smoking, chew, dip or smokeless tobacco
- Excessive consumption of alcohol
- Family history of cancer
Oral Cancer Detection
An oral lesion may be a persistent sore of irritation, a small, flat, red or white patch, or a growth, lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or irritated area. It is often painless, and you may not be aware of it. Because these lesions are often flat, very small, and in areas of your mouth that you cannot see, they often go undetected. Often these lesions can only be detected during an oral examination by your dentist. The American Cancer Society recommends a cancer checkup that includes oral examination every 3 years for persons over age 20 and annually for those over age 40.
Early identification has a large effect on prognosis. New painless testing is available using brush biopsy. Many dentists are now using this early diagnosis technique for oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Signs & Symptoms
- Swellings, lumps or bumps on the lips, gums or other areas inside the mouth
- Velvety white, red, or speckled (red and white) patches in the mouth
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Unexplained numbness, loss of feeling, or pain in any area of the face, mouth or neck
- Persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth that do not heal within two weeks
- A lump or thickening in the oral soft tissues
- A soreness or feeling that something is caught in the back of the throat
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
- Hoarseness
- Ear pain
- Numbness of the tongue or other areas of the mouth
- A swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
Precursor lesions
Two lesions that could be precursors to cancer are leukoplakia (white lesions) and erythroplakia (red lesions). Erythroplakia is less common then leukoplakia and has a much greater potential for becoming cancerous. Any white or red lesion that does not resolve (heal) within two weeks should be seen by your dentist or physician immediately for evaluation and possible biopsy to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
Oral Cancer Screening
Your dentist should screen for oral cancer during routine checkups by feeling for any lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks and oral cavity, and by examining the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for any sores or discolored tissues
What can I do to prevent oral cancer?
Oral cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancer-caused deaths. Of all major cancers, oral cancer has the worst five-year survival rate at about 50%. Because oral cancer is usually not diagnosed in its early stages, less than half of all oral cancer patients are ever actually cured. You can help prevent oral cancer by not smoking or using any tobacco products and drinking only in moderation (and refraining from binge drinking). When tobacco use and alcohol use are combined, the risk of oral cancer increases 15 times more than non-users of tobacco and alcohol products. Alcohol and tobacco have a synergistic effect on the development of oral cancer. Research suggests that eating fruits and vegetables may safeguard against oral cancer. Because successful treatment and rehabilitation are dependent on early detection, it’s extremely important to see your dentist for an oral cancer screening and regular checkup at least every six months. Survival rates greatly increase the earlier oral cancer is discovered and treated. During your next dental visit, remember to ask your dentist to perform an oral cancer screening. |
Note: It is important to note that
before beginning any course of treatment you should see your
dentist. Please note that without the benefit of a full dental
examination, including a review of medical history, dental x-rays,
and diagnostic aids, no attempt can be made to provide specific
diagnosis or recommended courses of treatment. However, we will be
happy to update our site to include topics you feel deserve
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