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Can You Survive Oral Cancer?

oral cancer

oral cancer

Are you wondering if you can survive oral cancer? Find out what you need to know to increase your chances of beating this serious disease.

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth and the surrounding areas, including the lips, tongue, and throat. 

It can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but with early detection and proper treatment, it is possible to survive and even fully recover from oral cancer. 

According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for people with oral cancer that is detected in the early stages is about 83%. This means that about 8 out of 10 people with early-stage oral cancer will survive for at least 5 years after their diagnosis. 

However, the survival rate decreases significantly if cancer has spread to other parts of the body or if it is detected in later stages. For example, the 5-year survival rate for people with advanced oral cancer is about 34%.

In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for oral cancer. So, let’s get started.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

Several risk factors may increase a person’s risk of developing oral cancer:

Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are the most significant risk factors for oral cancer. The chemicals in tobacco can damage the DNA in cells, which can lead to the development of cancerous cells.

Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption has also been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed and the frequency of consumption.

HPV infection: Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) have been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer, particularly oropharyngeal cancer (cancer of the back of the throat).

Age: The risk of oral cancer increases with age, particularly for people over the age of 40.

Sun exposure: Lip cancer is more common in people who spend a lot of time in the sun or have a history of sunburns on their lips.

Family history: People with a family history of cancer, particularly oral cancer, may have an increased risk of developing the disease.

oral cancer

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Symptoms of oral cancer may include:

Diagnosis of Oral Cancer

There are several steps involved in the diagnosis of oral cancer:

Physical examination

A doctor or dentist will perform a physical examination of the mouth, looking for any abnormalities or signs of cancer. 

This may include a visual inspection of the inside of the mouth and a feeling for any lumps or abnormalities on the lips, gums, tongue, roof, and floor of the mouth.

Biopsy

If any abnormalities are found during the physical examination, a biopsy may be recommended. 

A biopsy involves the removal of a small tissue sample for testing. The tissue sample is typically examined under a microscope to determine if cancerous cells are present.

Treatment of Oral Cancer

Treatment options for oral cancer may include:

Final Words

Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but it is treatable if caught early. 

By understanding the risk factors and being proactive in seeking treatment and prevention, it is possible to survive oral cancer

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of oral cancer, it is important to see a doctor or dentist right away.

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