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Symptoms, Causes Of Oral Cancer: Smoking, Alcohol, HPV Infections

Oral cancer is one type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. Among other parts of the oral cavity, it may impact the lips, tongue, gums, cheek lining, roof of the mouth, and bottom of the mouth. Oral cancer may have harmful consequences if it is not detected and treated right once. Hence, it is crucial to identify its symptoms and understand the factors that contribute to its development in order to avoid and treat it early.

Symptoms of oral cancer:

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Dr Harish Verma, Senior consultant-Surgical oncology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, says that oral cancer may present with a range of symptoms. Some of these include:

1. Oral sores since long time that are not healing.

2. Persistent oral pain or discomfort.

3. Spots on the lips that are white or reddish.

4. Having trouble speaking, swallowing, or eating.

5. A growth or thickening of the oral tissues.

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6. A persistent sore throat or throat inflammation.

Factors that contribute to oral cancer:

Several factors can increase the risk of developing oral cancer. It is critical to fully understand these risk factors to take preventative measures and diagnose problems early.

The following factors have been associated to oral cancer:

Tobacco chewing/smoking:

Tobacco use, whether through cigarettes or chewing tobacco, significantly increases the risk of developing mouth cancer. Tobacco products include harmful compounds that damage the cells lining the mouth and throat, perhaps resulting in the creation of malignant tumors, says Verma. Giving up tobacco is vital for lowering your risk of oral cancer and improving youroverall health.

Consumption of alcohol:

Verma points out that overdrinking is another significant risk factor for oral cancer. Alcohol may cause irritation to the throat and mouth tissues, making them more susceptible to malignant changes. When alcohol and tobacco are used together, the chance of developing mouth cancer increases significantly. Reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding binge drinking can help reduce the risk of contracting this illness.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection:

Oral cancer has been linked to infection with specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16. HPV infection of mouth and throat cells may eventually lead to cancer, says Verma. Getting an HPV vaccination and practicing safe sexual behavior can help to reduce the risk of HPV-related oral cancer.

Factors related to dental and oral hygiene: 

Dental cancer can develop because of poor oral hygiene and prolonged irritation from things like sharp teeth or ill-fitting prosthetics and dentures. Poor oral hygiene increases the risk of oral disorders, including cancer, by allowing harmful bacteria to multiply exponentially in themouth. Regular dental examinations, proper oral hygiene habits, and prompt treatment of any oral health issues can all reduce the chance of developing oral cancer.

Chronic oral infections:

Chronic infections in the mouth produced by specific strains of bacteria or fungi may lead to the occurrence of oral cancer, while the exact pathways are still being investigated, although the exact mechanisms are still being studied.

Nutritional deficiency:

A diet low in essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, may decrease immunity and increase the body's susceptibility to malignant tumours. To maintain good health and reduce your risk of acquiring oral cancer, consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient- dense meals. Avoiding processed and junk foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats can improve overall health and lower the risk of cancer.

If oral cancer is not detected and treated promptly, it might have serious effects. Understanding the symptoms and risk factors of oral cancer is crucial for preventing and treating the disease early on.

Nivedita is a Delhi-based journalist who writes on health, fashion, lifestyle and entertainment. Views expressed are personal.

Epidemiologist Emphasizes Oral Cancer Risks And Importance Of Early Detection

Kearney, Neb. — Health officials say a quick screening could save your life.

Epidemiologist Dr. Aravind Menon with Two Rivers Public Health Department sat down with NTV to discuss the signs and symptoms to watch when it comes to oral cancer.

He explains how oral cancer is a slow forming cancer that is a growth of tissues around your mouth or throat.

Dr. Menon said the biggest causes are high alcohol consumption and tobacco chewing.

He also explains how research shows that in the last 25 years, HPV has been related to certain oral cancers and has affected more men than women.

The Research

Research has identified a number of factors that may contribute to the development of oral cancers.

Historically, those at an especially high risk of developing oral cancer have been heavy drinkers and smokers older than age 50.

Today the cancer also is occurring more frequently in nonsmoking people due to HPV.

About 10% of oral cancers occur in individuals with no known risk factors.

They share no discernable commonalities, and they may be due to an unidentified genetic frailty yet to be discovered.

Signs/Symptoms

Predominantly caused by tobacco usage and/or excessive alcohol usage:

Any sore or ulceration that does not heal within 14 days.

A red, white, or black discoloration of the soft tissues of the mouth.

Any abnormality that bleeds easily when touched (friable).

A lump or hard spot in the tissue, usually border of the tongue (induration).

Tissue raised above that which surrounds it; a growth (exophytic).

A sore under a denture, which even after adjustment of the denture, does not heal.

A lump or thickening that develops in the mouth.

A painless, firm, fixated lump felt on the outside of the neck, which has been there for at least two weeks.

All the above symptoms have the commonality of being persistent and not resolving.

HPV-caused oropharyngeal cancer:

Hoarseness or sore throat that does not resolve within a few weeks.

A swollen tonsil on just one side. This is usually painless.

A painless, firm, fixated lump felt on the outside of the neck, which has been there for at least two weeks.

A persistent cough that does not resolve after many days.

Difficulty swallowing; a sensation that food is getting caught in your throat.

An earache on one side (unilateral) which persists for more than a few days.

All the above symptoms have the commonality of being persistent and not resolving.

Always call your dentist right away if there are any immediate concerns.

Menon said the best thing you can do is to get a screening and find it early so you can start treatment as soon as possible.

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