Key Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

Oral Cancer: Modifiable & Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is a kind of malignant tumour that develops in the oral cavity. Commonly affected areas include the lips, tongue, gums, and inner cheeks. In most cases, the cancer affects the mouth and oropharynx (the middle part of the throat).

Major Risk Factors Behind Oral Cancer

Let us discuss such factors that increase the risk of getting mouth cancer:

1. Smoking Cigarettes

Did you know that around 90% of oral cancer patients are tobacco users? This includes those who smoke cigarettes and cigars, as well as those who use smokeless tobacco like chewing tobacco. Interestingly, people who smoke pipes are particularly at risk for lip cancer, especially in the spots where the pipe stem makes contact with their lips.

2. Alcohol

The second major risk factor for oral cancer is the excessive consumption of alcohol. Alcohol, when in combination with tobacco, increases the risk of oral cancer manifold. It is known to increase the permeability of the lining inside the mouth and cause changes in the structure of epithelial tissue, leading to a reduction in the number of cells in an infected area.

3. UV-Rays

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially without protection, can lead to lip cancer. Similarly, excessive use of tanning beds can have the same effect. The actinic radiation from sun rays contributes to triggering cancer along the vermilion zone of the lip region. People with light skin are more prone to cancer due to sunlight due to a lack of melanin, which is responsible for protecting skin from actinic radiation damage.

4. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

HPV types 2 and 4 are known to cause oral cancer, primarily affecting the tonsils, the tonsillar crypt, and the back of the mouth near the base of the tongue. Men are at a higher risk of developing this cancer compared to women. Factors like a weakened immune system and having multiple sexual partners can further increase the likelihood of oral cancer.

5. Betel Quid (Gutka)

Certain betel quid ingredients such as tobacco and areca nut are the main reasons for it being a risk factor for getting mouth cancer. It induces OSMF (oral submucous fibrosis), which is a pre-cancerous stage that damages oral cells. The remains of betel quid stay in the oral cavity for a long time, causing harm even after being spat out.

Prevention of Oral Cancer

Prevention is better than a cure. Here is a list of several habits that you can imbibe in your daily life to reduce the probability of oral cancer:

1. Avoid Tobacco Usage

Start by putting a limit on tobacco consumption and eventually avoid such products that contain tobacco. Using nicotine gums to deal with your desire to consume tobacco is one of the many ways to control its usage. However, you can also reach out to a healthcare team to work together regarding tobacco addiction.

2. Limiting Alcohol Consumption

Moderate drinking does not lead to oral cancer. Therefore, mindful consumption will be helpful in your journey to mitigate the chances of getting cancer symptoms. For a healthy adult, one drink is for women, and up to two drinks are for men. However, if there are any underlying health conditions, then it is advisable to consult a medical expert.

3. Excessive Sun Exposure

Protection from the sun is crucial; you can do this by covering up before leaving the house and frequently using sunscreen. You can cover yourself up with a wide-brimmed hat or an umbrella. Remember to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and PA++++, and keep applying it throughout the day. Avoid staying in the sun for prolonged periods.    

4. HPV Vaccination

Taking an HPV vaccination is a proactive decision to reduce the risk of any contamination with HPV that causes mouth cancer. You can reach out to any healthcare provider to gain more information about a suitable vaccine.  

Having frequent visits to a dental clinic or when you notice initial symptoms of oral cancer will speed up its treatment process. Most oral cancer detection takes place with these dental experts. However, a mindful inclusion of preventative measures can reduce the chances of oral cancer to a great extent. 

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