Introduction to Oral Cancer in India
In India, oral cancer is one of the most common cancers. It is estimated that about 30,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, and the incidence is increasing. Oral cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancers in India. The most common type of oral cancer in India is squamous cell carcinoma, which affects the lining of the mouth and throat.
Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use (smoking and smokeless), alcohol consumption, betel quid chewing, HPV infection, and a diet low in fruits and vegetables. There is evidence that tobacco use is the most important risk factor for oral cancer in India. Smokeless tobacco products, such as gutkha and khaini, are particularly popular in India and are associated with a high risk of oral cancer.
The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid tobacco products and excessive alcohol consumption. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may also help reduce the risk of developing oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups can help detect early signs of oral cancer.
What Causes Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is primarily caused by the use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco. Other risk factors include excessive alcohol consumption, infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), and a history of head and neck radiation therapy.
Tobacco use is the most important risk factor for oral cancer. Cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products contain harmful chemicals that can damage the DNA in cells in the mouth, leading to the development of cancerous tumors. Smokeless tobacco products also contain harmful chemicals that can increase the risk of oral cancer.
Alcohol consumption is another major risk factor for oral cancer. Drinking alcohol increases the levels of certain enzymes in the body that can break down DNA, making it more susceptible to damage and mutations that can lead to cancer.
Infection with HPV is also a risk factor for oral cancer. HPV is a group of viruses that can infect the skin and mucous membranes, and some types of HPV are linked to an increased risk of developing oral cancer.
Finally, a history of head and neck radiation therapy is also a risk factor for developing oral cancer. Radiation therapy is often used to treat cancers in the head and neck area, but it can also damage healthy cells and tissue in these areas, increasing the risk of developing new cancers.
Risk Factors for Developing Oral Cancer
There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. These include:
Tobacco use: Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of oral cancer. Other forms of tobacco, such as chewing tobacco and snuff, also increase the risk.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol excessively can damage the cells lining the mouth and throat, increasing the risk of cancer.
Ultraviolet light exposure: People who work in jobs that expose them to ultraviolet light (such as welders and tanning-bed operators) have an increased risk of developing lip cancer.
Human papillomavirus infection: HPV is a common virus that can infect the mouth and throat. People with HPV are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer.
Oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can lead to a build-up of plaque, which can increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
Prevention Tips for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the tissues of the mouth and throat. It is a serious disease that can be life-threatening if not caught early and treated properly. According to the National Cancer Registry Programme, oral cancer is the 8th most common cancer in India, with an estimated 1 lakh new cases every year.
The good news is that oral cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer, or to catch it early if you do develop it.
Here are some prevention tips for oral cancer:
-Avoid tobacco use in all forms. This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and any other type of tobacco product.
-Limit your alcohol consumption. Heavy drinkers are at an increased risk for oral cancer.
-Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been linked with a reduced risk for oral cancer.
-Protect your lips from the sun. Use a lip balm or sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your lips from UV radiation.
-See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can spot early signs of oral cancer during a routine exam
Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer
There are several common symptoms of oral cancer, which include:
- A persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth that bleeds easily and does not heal within two weeks.
- White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
- A lump or mass in the neck.
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing.
- Persistent hoarseness or voice changes.
- Ear pain or numbness in the jaw, neck, or face.
Treatment Options for Oral Cancer
There are multiple treatment options available for oral cancer, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Surgery is the most common treatment for oral cancer. The type of surgery will depend on the size and location of the tumor. Surgery may be done to remove the tumor and some surrounding tissue, or it may be more extensive if the cancer has spread to other parts of the mouth or throat. Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Chemotherapy may also be used before or after surgery to kill cancer cells.
Conclusion
Oral cancer is becoming increasingly common in India, and it is important for everyone to be aware of its causes and prevention. By understanding the risk factors associated with oral cancer and taking preventive actions such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding sun exposure to your lips and mouth area, regular dental check-ups etc., you can reduce your risk significantly. We hope that this article has been informative and helpful in educating you on the risks associated with oral cancer in India.
