A middle-aged Iraqi woman, Yasmin (name changed), came to Bangalore for her treatment, after unsuccessful chemotherapy. She had advanced-stage tongue cancer, and Dr Girish S Shetkar, consultant, head & neck oncology, Aster CMI Hospital, treated her. He said, “To address the concern, a total glossectomy (removal of part or whole tongue) was done, and reconstructive surgery was performed using a flap from the thigh to ensure there would be no difficulties while speaking, swallowing, and breathing. Even after getting diagnosed in the advanced stages, post-surgery, Yasmin has an improved quality of life and has remained cancer-free for the last 5 years.
Causes of oral cancer
Oral cancer is also called oral cavity cancer or mouth cancer. Studies say that 80-85 percent of oral cancers occur due to excessive consumption of tobacco, infections in the mouth, or a combination of both. Smoking habits like e-cigarettes and chewing tobacco, along with poor dental hygiene, autoimmune issues like lichen planus, and nutritional imbalances, can increase your risk of oral cancer.
“In the early stages of oral cancer, chances of recovery are high, and even at advanced stages, successful treatments are possible,” says Dr Shetkar.
It is known predominantly that oral cancers are caused in the male population due to a history of smoking. However, cases in women are also increasing these days, says Dr Sandeep Nayak P, director of surgical oncology & robotic and laparoscopic surgery department, Fortis Hospitals, Bangalore.
Signs of oral cancers include mouth sores, reddish or whitish patches, lumps or swelling in the mouth or face, sore throat, voice changes, numbness in mouth or tongue, loose teeth, jaw pain, and any unexpected bleeding or pain, indicated Dr Nayak.
Risk factors to be aware of
- Tobacco use: Tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco.
- Alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption poses a significant risk for oral cancer.
- HPV infection: Develops in people who have the human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Poor oral hygiene: Accumulation of bacteria and toxins in the oral cavity
- Misaligned teeth and dentures: Poorly fitted dentures or jagged teeth
Ways to treat oral cancer
Dr Shetkar says that the treatment for oral cancer depends on the stage and location of cancer besides the individual’s overall health. If symptoms persist for over two weeks, the patient must consult an oncologist.
Detection of oral cancers is possible through a thorough examination of the mouth and throat. Various diagnostic tests such as biopsy, X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans are conducted, says Dr Shetkar.
Once diagnosed, medical interventions could be the only way to manage oral cancer symptoms or treat it. These include:
Surgical method: While surgery is generally the primary method of treatment, it may require additional reconstructive surgeries to restore functionality, particularly in advanced cases where a more significant portion of the tumor must be removed.
Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are used to target and kill cancer cells which can be used in combination with other treatment modalities, says Dr Shetkar.
Chemotherapy: In this mode of treatment, powerful drugs are given orally or intravenously to target (targeted therapy) and kill cancer cells, says Dr Nayak.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs are essential in treating oral cancers, and the immune system is used to recognize and attack cancer cells.
How to prevent oral cancer?
- Quit using tobacco completely, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco.
- Limit how much alcohol you drink.
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly for good oral hygiene, and see your dentist for checkups.
- Get the HPV vaccine, especially if you are at higher risk.
- Eat a balanced diet, primarily fruits and vegetables, and low in processed foods and red meat to build natural immunity.
Takeaways
- Oral cancer is one of the preventable cancers due to the commonly known causes of consumption of tobacco, alcohol, poor oral hygiene, infections, and others that can be avoided.
- There are a variety of treatment options available, including surgical intervention, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
- Experts share that even in the most severe stages of oral cancer (stage 4), successful treatment may be possible.
