When we think of cancer, most of us picture lung, breast, or blood cancers. But there’s another type of cancer that’s quietly on the rise, especially in India oral cancer. What makes it more concerning is that it often goes unnoticed in its early stages. By the time people seek help, the disease may have already advanced, making treatment far more challenging.
Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth on the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, or gums. It is one of the top three cancers in India, with Telangana and Andhra Pradesh reporting especially high cases due to lifestyle habits.
Let’s break down why oral cancer is becoming a bigger concern and what signs you should never ignore.
Why is Oral Cancer on the Rise?
There isn’t just one reason. Oral cancer is linked to a mix of lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and lack of awareness. Here are the key contributors:
- Tobacco Use – Chewing tobacco, gutkha, and even smoking are the biggest culprits. The chemicals in these products damage cells in the mouth and throat, leading to mutations.
- Betel Nut (Supari) and Paan – Widely consumed in states like Telangana, areca nut (supari) combined with lime and betel leaf is harmful. Even without tobacco, it is a known carcinogen.
- Alcohol Consumption – Regular and heavy drinking increases oral cancer risk, especially when combined with tobacco.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Chronic irritation from sharp teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or neglected oral health can also contribute.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – A growing cause of oral cancers, particularly in younger adults.
- Lack of Regular check up– Many people avoid dental check-ups until they’re in pain. This delay often allows small lesions to turn into bigger problems.
In short, lifestyle choices and late detection are fuelling the rise in oral cancer cases.
Early Signs of Oral Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore
One of the challenges with oral cancer is that early symptoms often seem harmless. People dismiss them as “just an ulcer” or “just a sore from spicy food.” But if these signs last for more than two weeks, they need immediate attention:
- Mouth ulcers or sores that don’t heal
- White or red patches on the tongue, gums, or lining of the mouth
- Persistent pain or burning sensation in the mouth
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
- A lump, thickening, or rough patch inside the mouth
- Numbness in the lips or tongue
- Loose teeth or dentures suddenly not fitting well
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Hoarseness or changes in voice
These may not always mean cancer but they are red flags you shouldn’t ignore. Early detection is the key to successful treatment.
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
Dentists are often the first to spot signs of oral cancer. During a routine examination, they check not just your teeth and gums, but also the tissues of your mouth. A simple five-minute screening can detect suspicious lesions long before they become dangerous.
Think of it this way: we go for full-body health check-ups once a year. Why not do the same for our oral health? Regular dental visits are not just about cleaning teeth — they can literally save lives.
Prevention: Small Steps, Big Difference
The good news is that oral cancer is largely preventable. Making a few changes in your lifestyle can cut down your risk significantly:
- Quit tobacco in all forms – cigarettes, bidis, gutkha, khaini, paan masala.
- Avoid or limit alcohol consumption.
- Cut down on areca nut (supari) – even without tobacco, it’s dangerous.
- Maintain good oral hygiene – brush and floss daily, and address sharp teeth or denture issues.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables – antioxidants boost immunity and reduce cancer risk.
- Get regular dental screenings – especially if you fall into a high-risk category.
Remember, prevention is always easier and cheaper than treatment.
Conclusion
Your mouth tells a story about your health every day. It’s up to us to listen. A small step like quitting tobacco, getting regular dental screenings, or paying attention to a tiny ulcer could save your life.
So, let’s not take our oral health for granted. Prevention and awareness are our strongest weapons against oral cancer. Protect your smile, protect your life. Book your consultation with Smiline today.