Cancer of the mouth is one of the most common types of cancer in India. Southeast Asia contributes to 90% of the global cancer load. An interplay of cultural practices, lifestyle choices and socioeconomic factors results in a staggering number of cases.
While the use of tobacco and alcohol contributes to the majority of the cases of oral cancer, the last two decades have seen a rise in cancers associated with the sexually transmitted Human Papilloma virus (HPV) which infects as many as nearly 90% of men and 80% of women in their lifetime.
Once diagnosed, the treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The most appropriate treatment is decided by a team of doctors based on the disease patterns and needs of each patient.
Despite being highly preventable and treatable if detected early, oral cancer continues to claim lives at an alarming rate due to late diagnosis. This disease serves as an ideal subsite for screening due to accessibility, known risk factors, identifiable pre-cancerous lesions and the evidence that early detection can result in cure rates as high as 90%.
Breast self-examination is a well-known strategy for early detection of breast cancer. Likewise, mouth self-examination can be easily done at home. If you find a lesion that is not healing, visit the hospital as soon as possible. Considering the burden of the disease, it is advisable to get screened for oral cancer at least once a year.
Routine screenings, often quick and painless, can detect abnormalities in the mouth before they escalate into cancerous lesions. Early detection not only ensures better treatment outcomes but also minimizes the need for invasive interventions. Trained and experienced Otorhinolaryngologists can diagnose cancer and pre-cancerous conditions and can also provide appropriate advice to prevent cancer.
For a nation like India, where tobacco consumption and betel quid chewing are prevalent cultural practices, awareness and access to screening services are paramount. By prioritizing preventive measures, we can significantly reduce the burden of oral cancer and save countless lives.
Don’t wait for symptoms to surface; empower yourself with knowledge and embrace regular screenings. Together, we can combat oral cancer and safeguard the health of our communities.
The expert team led by Dr. Satish Nair at Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta, Bangalore, offer the right diagnosis, treatment, and counselling to prevent and treat oral and head and neck cancer. Book your appointment today!
