Oral Cancer
The oral cavity includes the lips, gums, tongue, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth and the front part of the roof of the mouth. These structures work together to help with speaking, chewing, swallowing and the first stages of digestion.
Overview
Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that develops inside the mouth. It begins when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the tissues of the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth or the front portion of the roof of the mouth.
Oral cancer may initially resemble common mouth problems such as sores or patches that do not heal. If left untreated, it can spread to nearby tissues in the head and neck or other parts of the body, making early detection and timely treatment especially important.
Risk Factors
Factors We Cannot Control
Family History
Having a biological family history of oral cancer may increase the risk of developing the disease.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Certain HPV infections are associated with an increased risk of developing oral cancer.
Age
Oral cancer is most commonly diagnosed in people who are 60 years of age or older.
Lifestyle & Health Factors
Smoking or Tobacco Use
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes or using smokeless tobacco products significantly increases the risk of oral cancer.
Excessive Alcohol Use
Regular heavy alcohol consumption raises the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
Excessive Sun Exposure
Frequent sun exposure without lip protection can increase the risk of cancer affecting the lips.
Symptoms
1. Mouth Sores That Don't Heal
Persistent sores or ulcers that bleed easily and do not heal within two weeks should be evaluated.
2. White or Red Patches
White, red or mixed red-and-white patches inside the mouth may be early warning signs.
3. Pain or Numbness
Unexplained pain, tenderness or numbness in the mouth, face or neck may occur.
4. Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing
Chewing, swallowing or moving the tongue and jaw may become difficult.
5. Ear Pain
Persistent ear pain without an ear infection may be associated with oral cancer.
6. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying can occur as the disease progresses.
Diagnosis
1. Physical Examination
The healthcare provider examines the mouth, face, head and neck for abnormal areas or enlarged lymph nodes.
2. Brush Biopsy
A small brush or spatula collects surface cells from a suspicious area for laboratory examination.
3. Incisional Biopsy
A small tissue sample is removed so it can be examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.
4. Laryngoscopy or Pharyngoscopy
Special instruments or a flexible scope allow the healthcare provider to examine areas deeper in the mouth and throat.
5. Imaging Tests
Imaging studies may be performed to determine the size of the tumor and whether it has spread.
Treatments
1. Surgery
Surgery removes the tumor and may also involve nearby lymph nodes or reconstructive procedures when necessary.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from growing.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer medicines to kill cancer cells and may be combined with other treatments.
4. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses medicines that specifically attack cancer cells while reducing damage to healthy tissues.
5. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
