ORAL CANCER

Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the tissues of

the mouth or oral cavity. This includes the lips, tongue
cheeks , floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses,
and throat. Like many other forms of cancer, oral cancer
results from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells,
leading to the formation of malignant tumors. Oral cancer is
fairly common and often cured if found and treated at an
early stage. (This is when the cancer is small and hasn’t
spread.) A healthcare provider or dentist often finds oral
cancer in its early stages because the mouth is easy to
examine. Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer
Oral cancer VS world
In 2020, India had an estimated incidence of 135,929 oral cavity cancers in 2020
that is expected to increase by around 26% in 2030 [5]. Moreover, 60%–80% of
the cases present at advanced stages of the disease
Causative Agents of Oral cancer
Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, can develop in any
part of the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue, inner
lining of the cheeks, roof, and floor of the mouth. Several
factors can contribute to the development of oral cancer. It's
important to note that cancer is often the result of a
combination of factors, and not everyone with these risk
factors will develop oral cancer. Some common causes and
risk factors for oral cancer include:

1. Tobacco Use:
 Smoking: Smoking tobacco, whether in cigarettes,

cigars, or pipes, is a significant risk factor for oral

cancer. The harmful substances in tobacco can
damage the cells in the mouth and lead to cancer.
 Smokeless Tobacco: Chewing tobacco and snuff can

also increase the risk of oral cancer.

2. Alcohol Consumption:
 Excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption is

another major risk factor for oral cancer. The risk is

even higher when combined with tobacco use.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection:
 Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-

18, have been linked to an increased risk of oral

cancer. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection.
4. Sun Exposure:
 Prolonged exposure to sunlight without protection

can increase the risk of lip cancer.

5. Poor Oral Hygiene:
  Chronic irritation of the oral cavity, often associated
with poor dental and oral hygiene, can contribute to
the development of oral cancer.
6. Poor Nutrition:
 A diet low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to

the development of oral cancer. A lack of essential

vitamins and minerals can compromise the body's
ability to protect against cancer.
7. Genetic Factors:
 Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition

to developing oral cancer. A family history of oral

cancer may increase the risk.
8. Age and Gender:
 Oral cancer is more common in older adults, and

men are generally at a higher risk than women.

9. Weakened Immune System:
 Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as

those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing organ

transplantation, may have an increased risk of
developing oral cancer.
10. Chronic Irritation:
 Chronic irritation from ill-fitting dentures, rough

surfaces on teeth, or other sources of ongoing

irritation may contribute to the development of oral
cancer.

It's important for individuals to be aware of these risk factors

and to engage in regular oral health check-ups. Early
detection can significantly improve the prognosis and
treatment outcomes for oral cancer. If someone notices
persistent changes in their mouth, such as sores, lumps, or
discoloration, they should seek prompt medical attention.
Additionally, practicing healthy lifestyle habits, such as
avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption, can help
reduce the risk of oral cancer.
Treating of Oral cancer
The treatment for oral cancer depends on various factors, including
the stage of the cancer, the location and size of the tumor, and the
overall health of the patient. Treatment often involves a combination
of therapies, and the goal is to remove or destroy the cancer while
preserving as much healthy tissue and function as possible. Common
treatments for oral cancer include:

1. Surgery:
 Surgical removal of the tumor is a common treatment for
oral cancer. The extent of surgery depends on the size and
location of the tumor. In some cases, a surgeon may remove
part of the affected tissue (lumpectomy), while in more
advanced cases, a more extensive surgery may be required,
including removal of part of the jaw or tongue.
2. Radiation Therapy:
 Radiation therapy uses high-dose X-rays or other high-energy
beams to target and kill cancer cells. It may be used as the
primary treatment or in combination with surgery. Radiation
therapy is often employed to reduce the risk of recurrence
after surgery.
3. Chemotherapy:
 Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells
or stop their growth. It may be used before surgery
(neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink tumors, after surgery
to destroy remaining cancer cells, or as the primary
treatment for advanced cases. Chemotherapy is sometimes
used in combination with radiation therapy.
4. Targeted Therapy:
 Targeted therapy drugs are designed to target specific
molecules involved in cancer growth. They may be used in
cases where specific molecular markers are present.
 Targeted therapies are often used in conjunction with other
treatments.

5. Immunotherapy:
 Immunotherapy works by boosting the body's immune
system to recognize and attack cancer cells. This approach
is being explored for the treatment of various cancers,
including oral cancer.
6. Reconstructive Surgery:
 In cases where surgery involves removing a significant
portion of the mouth or jaw, reconstructive surgery may be
performed to restore function and appearance. This may
involve the use of tissue grafts or artificial implants.
7. Supportive Care:
 Supportive care is an essential component of cancer
treatment. It includes managing symptoms, addressing
nutritional needs, and providing psychological support.
Patients may work with a multidisciplinary team, including
oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, nutritionists,
and other healthcare professionals.
8. Follow-Up Care:
 After completing primary treatment, patients typically
undergo regular follow-up examinations to monitor for any
signs of recurrence. Follow-up care may include imaging
tests, blood tests, and regular dental check-ups.

It's crucial for individuals diagnosed with oral cancer to work closely
with their healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan
based on their specific case. Early detection and treatment can
significantly improve outcomes, and support from healthcare
professionals and loved ones are vital during the treatment process.
Famous celebrities recovery from this deadly disease
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, some celebrities
have publicly shared their experiences of overcoming oral cancer. It's
important to note that information may have changed since then, and
it's always a good idea to check for the latest updates. Here are a
couple of examples:

1. Michael Douglas:
 The acclaimed actor Michael Douglas revealed in 2010 that
he had been diagnosed with stage IV throat cancer, which is
a type of oral cancer. He underwent intense radiation and
chemotherapy treatments and announced in 2011 that the
tumor was gone. Douglas has been an advocate for cancer
awareness and prevention since his diagnosis.
2. Val Kilmer:
 Val Kilmer, known for his roles in movies such as "Top Gun"
and "Batman Forever," battled throat cancer (a form of oral
cancer) and underwent a tracheotomy as part of his
treatment. In 2017, he confirmed that he had been
diagnosed with cancer, and by 2020, he stated that he was
cancer-free.
Conclusion of oral cancer
These individuals, along with many others who may not be as
widely known, have shared their experiences to raise
awareness about oral cancer and the importance of early
detection and treatment. Keep in mind that the journey of
overcoming cancer is highly personal, and the details of each
person's experience can vary widely. If you're interested in
more recent updates or additional examples, consider
checking the latest news or reliable sources for the most
current information.