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Oral Cancer Symptoms, Causes, Examinations, and Treatments at a Glance

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You can find these in this article:
What is Oral Cavity Cancer?
What Are The Main Causes of Oral Cancer?
Symptoms of Oral Cavity Cancer
How To Prevent Oral Cancer
Conclusion

What Is Oral Cavity Cancer?

Oral cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the mouth, with the majority being squamous cell carcinomas. It commonly affects mucosal areas such as the tongue, cheeks, gums, hard palate, and floor of the mouth, and can also be found on the lips, maxillary sinus, facial skin, and jawbone. Oral cancer most frequently occurs in adults aged 40–60 and is more common in men. Compared to tumors in other regions, oral cancer has a higher tendency to spread to lymph nodes. Due to its location on the face, it often leads to complications affecting eating, speech, and appearance. Treatment typically involves radical surgical removal as the primary approach, supplemented by individualized comprehensive therapy including radiation and chemotherapy.

What Are The Main Causes of Oral Cancer?

1. Long-term Smoking, Alcohol Consumption, and Betel Nut Chewing
Most oral cancer patients have a long history of smoking and drinking. Studies show that individuals who smoke and drink have a 15.5 times higher risk of developing oral cancer compared to those who do neither. In recent years, the incidence of oral cancer among betel nut chewers has also risen significantly. Betel nut is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO). Frequent chewing of betel nut significantly increases the risk of oral mucosal lesions, which in turn raises the likelihood of developing oral cancer.

2. HPV Infection
The human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual activity and close contact, is another major risk factor. While HPV is known for causing cervical cancer in women, it has also been increasingly linked to the rise in oral cancer cases in recent years. Research shows that around 70% of newly diagnosed oral cancer patients are infected with HPV, making it an even more prominent carcinogenic factor than tobacco.

3. Poor Oral Hygiene Habits
Poor oral hygiene allows bacteria and fungi to grow and multiply in the mouth, facilitating the formation of nitrosamines, a known Group 1 carcinogen. Chronic inflammation from poor dental care can lead to cell overgrowth, making the tissue more vulnerable to carcinogens and promoting the development of oral cancer.

4. Chronic Irritation and Injury
Habits such as eating excessively hot or spicy food, or having sharp tooth edges, root fragments, or ill-fitting dentures, can lead to long-term irritation of the oral mucosa. This chronic irritation may result in persistent ulcers, which can eventually turn cancerous.

5. Malnutrition
Deficiencies in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, selenium, and zinc are associated with a higher risk of oral cancer. Inadequate intake of total protein and animal protein may also be contributing factors.

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Symptoms of Oral Cavity Cancer

  • Non-healing ulcer: A typical ulcer usually heals within 7–10 days, whereas a cancerous ulcer may persist for weeks or even months.
  • Unexplained lump: A painless, rapidly growing hard lump in the mouth, sometimes accompanied by bleeding, may indicate cancer.
  • Abnormal coloration: White, red, or black patches on the oral mucosa could be signs of precancerous lesions.
  • Restricted mouth opening: Tumor invasion into the muscles may cause difficulty in opening the mouth.
  • Enlarged neck lymph nodes: Painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck may signal metastasis of oral cancer.

How To Prevent Oral Cancer？

  • Eliminate high-risk habits: Quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid chewing betel nut.
  • Get the HPV vaccine: Prevent HPV infection to reduce the risk of oral cancer.
  • Maintain oral hygiene: Brush teeth regularly, use dental floss, and treat oral diseases promptly.
  • Healthy diet: Consume more foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables.
  • Regular check-ups: High-risk individuals should have an oral health check-up every 6 months. Regular oral examinations help detect early symptoms and signs of oral cancer, improving both cure rates and survival rates. In addition to oral check-ups, regular full-body health examinations are also essential. These can help identify other potential health issues early and improve overall well-being.

Conclusion

Although oral cancer is aggressive, its early-stage cure rate can exceed 90%. By adopting healthier lifestyle habits, paying attention to early warning signs, and undergoing regular medical check-ups, we can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. Protecting oral health is not only a sign of respect for life, but also a commitment to quality of living.

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