Oral cancer, also referred to as mouth cancer, can start slowly and frequently without producing significant pain or suffering. For this reason, it is critical to understand what the initial phase looks like.
The early stage, also known as Stage 1, is characterised by a tumour that is small, 2 centimetres or less, and has not migrated to lymph nodes or other body organs. Even though it is localised, it may exhibit physical or visual symptoms that are noticeable at close range.
Mouth cancer occurs in squamous cells in the oral cavity. Tumours in the oral area become cancerous when the DNA of squamous cells changes and begins multiplying or growing. Over time, these cells spread to the inside of the mouth, other neck and head areas.
Mouth cancer develops mainly among individuals aged between 50 to 74 years; however, it can occur earlier mainly in cases linked to HPV infection. The following are the risk factors of mouth cancer:
Here are the most common ways early-stage mouth cancer may appear:
One of the earliest signs is a sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within 1 or 2 weeks. It may resemble a canker sore, but it lasts much longer. These sores may show the following symptoms:
If a sore lingers beyond the normal healing period, especially without an obvious cause, it should be examined by a dentist or doctor.
Another common early sign is the appearance of abnormal patches on the lining of the mouth. These patches may look like:
These colour changes often go unnoticed unless specifically looked for during a routine dental exam or self-check.
Early mouth cancer can also appear as a small lump, swelling, or thickened area. This might be located:
The mass might feel firm or rough to the touch. Although painless at first, it may eventually cause discomfort while eating or speaking.
In rare cases, early-stage mouth cancer can make it harder to move the jaw or tongue freely. This may include:
These symptoms usually appear later, but when present early, they may point to a lesion that’s interfering with normal oral function.
Individuals can prevent or reduce the risk of developing mouth cancer by following healthy lifestyle habits.
Early-stage mouth cancer is highly treatable if detected promptly. Treatment usually begins with surgery to remove the tumour and a small margin of healthy tissue around it to ensure no cancer cells remain. In some cases, minimally invasive techniques may be used.
Surgeons may need to perform reconstructive surgery, depending on the exact location and size of the cancer, to restore function and appearance.
Doctors might recommend radiation therapy after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. In certain cases, especially when surgery is not possible, doctors may use radiation alone or combine it with chemotherapy.
Regular follow-up appointments, a healthy diet, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol are crucial parts of the recovery process. Early intervention often leads to a high success rate, making regular dental check ups and prompt attention to symptoms like mouth sores or lumps extremely important.
Overall, the starting stage of mouth cancer often presents as a persistent sore, unusual red or white patches, or a small lump. Though early symptoms may not cause pain, they should never be ignored. Prompt diagnosis at this stage often leads to better outcomes and less invasive treatment.
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