Understanding Oral Cancer - Key Clues to Look Out For

What are Oral Cancers?

Oral or mouth cancer is a part of head and neck cancer. It is a serious and life-threatening condition that arises in the tissues of the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, hard and soft palate, floor of the mouth, sinuses, and throat.

This cancer can be challenging for doctors to detect in its early stages, making it crucial for people to be aware of the warning signs and seek prompt medical attention.

Let’s explore the different types of oral cancer, understand the causes and risk factors, and highlight the importance of early detection and prevention. People can take several proactive steps to safeguard their oral health and improve their chances of successful treatment and recovery by understanding the key clues to look out for.

Types of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can manifest in various forms, each with its unique characteristics and challenges. The most common types of oral cancers are the following:

• Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC): This type of oral cancer is the most common (around 90%) type of oral cancer. It develops when the squamous cells lining the mouth and throat mutate and divide abnormally.
• Verrucous Carcinoma: A very slow-growing cancer, accounting for 5% of oral cancers, verrucous carcinoma appears as wart-like lesions. It often affects the gums and the inner cheek.
• Minor Salivary Gland Carcinomas: This type of oral cancer develops in the minor salivary glands located throughout the mouth and throat. These tumours include mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, and polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma.
• Lymphoma: A type of oral cancer that can develop in the lymphoid tissue of the oral cavity, particularly in the tonsils and the base of the tongue.
• Mucosal Melanoma: This is a rare but aggressive form of tumour that often appears on the roof of the mouth or the gums.
• Sarcoma: A group of oral cancers originating in the oral cavity’s connective tissues (bones, muscles, and blood vessels). These include osteosarcoma and Kaposi sarcoma.
• Basal Cell Cancer (BCC): Although primarily skin cancer, BCC can occur on the lips, particularly the upper lip. It is a less aggressive and slow-growing tumour.

Causes and Risk Factors of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are within an individual’s control, while others are not. The following are the primary risk factors that can increase the susceptibility to getting oral cancer:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking or the use of tobacco in any form is a major contributor to the development of oral cancer.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption, especially in combination with tobacco use, significantly increases the risk of oral cancer.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Specific strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, have been linked to the development of oral cancers.
• Sun Exposure: Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can increase the likelihood of lip cancer.
• Age: The risk of oral cancer generally increases as the person gets older, with many cases occurring over the age of 40.

Warning Signs of Oral Cancer

Early detection is key in the treatment and management of oral cancer. It can increase the chance of a better prognosis. The following are some of the common warning signs of oral cancer:

• Persistent sores or lesions in the mouth that do not heal within two weeks
• Unexplained lumps or thickening of the oral tissues
• White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or other parts of the oral cavity
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Persistent pain or numbness in the mouth or throat
• Hoarseness or change in voice
• Changes in the way the teeth fit together
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Persistent pain in one ear without hearing loss

Importance of Early Detection and Diagnosis

Early detection is the most critical factor for the successful treatment and management of oral cancer. If discovered in the initial stages, oral cancer is often treatable, with a five-year survival rate of up to 90%. However, when the cancer is detected in its later stages, the prognosis can be much more challenging, with a five-year survival rate of only around 33%.

Prompt diagnosis is essential for determining the appropriate course of treatment. Doctors, such as dentists and primary care physicians, can play an important role in catching the early signs of oral cancer during routine oral examinations and screenings, says Dr. Narayana Subramaniam. By recognising the early warning signs and referring patients for further evaluation, they can help ensure that any potential cancers are detected and addressed in a timely manner.

Oral Cancer Screening and Prevention

Regular oral tumour screenings are an essential component of preventive medicine. During these screenings, doctors will carefully examine the mouth, lips, throat, and neck for any signs of abnormalities or potential cancers. The examination may involve visual inspections, palpation (feeling) of the tissues, and potentially additional diagnostic tests, such as biopsies or imaging scans.

In addition to regular screenings, there are several steps people can take to help prevent the development of oral cancer:

• Quit or Avoid Tobacco Use: Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco can significantly lower the risk of oral cancer.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Reducing or avoiding excessive alcohol intake can lower the risk of oral cancer.
• Protect against HPV: Vaccination against HPV can help prevent certain types of oral cancers.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, can help address potential issues early on.
• Limit Sun Exposure: Using sun protection, such as lip balm with SPF, can help reduce the risk of lip cancer.

Treatment Options for Oral Cancer

The treatment approach for oral cancer will depend on various factors, including the stage and location of the tumour, as well as the person’s overall health and preferences. Here are some common treatment options for oral cancer:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the cancerous area and surrounding tissues may be recommended, especially in the early stages of the disease.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation destroys cancer cells and prevents their growth and spread.
• Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment with anti-cancer drugs may be used alone or in combination with other therapies.
• Targeted Therapy: Doctors also use newer, more targeted treatments targeting the genetic mutations or proteins responsible for cancer’s growth and spread.

Support and Resources for Oral Cancer

A positive diagnosis of oral cancer can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. However, patients need to know that they are not alone and that numerous support resources and services are available to assist them throughout their journey.

Many cancer organisations and support groups offer a wide range of resources, including:

• Educational materials and information about oral cancer
• Emotional support and counselling services
• Financial assistance and guidance for managing the costs of treatment
• Rehabilitation and recovery services, such as speech therapy and physical therapy
• Peer support networks and connections with other individuals and families affected by oral cancer

Promoting Oral Health and Preventing Oral Cancer

Promoting overall oral health is a critical step in preventing the development of oral cancer. In addition to the preventive steps mentioned earlier, people can take the following steps to maintain good oral hygiene and lower their risk of oral cancer:

• Visit a Dentist Regularly: Regular dental visits for check-ups and cleanings can identify potential issues or abnormalities in the oral cavity, allowing for early intervention and prevention.
• Maintain a Balanced, Nutrient-rich Diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other whole, unprocessed foods can help support overall oral health and potentially reduce the risk of oral cancer.
• Avoid Exposure to Environmental Carcinogens: Limiting exposure to known carcinogens, such as HPV, silica, asbestos, certain chemicals (pesticides, formaldehyde, or benzene), radiation, or secondhand smoke, can help lower the risk of developing oral cancer.
• Regular Physical Activity: An active lifestyle can contribute to overall health and potentially reduce the likelihood of various cancer types, including oral cancer.

Conclusion

Oral cavity cancer is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires vigilance and proactive management. By understanding the different types of oral tumours, recognising the warning signs and symptoms, and taking steps to improve overall oral health, individuals can take proactive steps in early detection, prevention, and successful treatment.