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In the United States this year, 31,000 new oral cancers will be diagnosed. Even with advances in surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, some 50% of these cancer patients will die of their malignancy. Delay in diagnosis allows tumors to invade deep into local structures and can spread to lymph nodes in the neck, resulting in this high mortality. Routine oral exams are an important part in controlling oral cancer.
Oral cancer is a disease when malignant cells are found in the tissue of the lips or mouth. The oral cavity includes: the front two-thirds of the tongue, the upper and lower gums (the Gingiva), the lining of the inside of the cheeks and lips (the Buccal Mucosa), the bottom of the mouth under the tongue, the bony top of the mouth (the hard Palate), and the small area behind the wisdom teeth (the Retromolar Trigone). Early Warning Signs of Oral Cancer * Any sores on the face, neck or mouth that does not heal within two weeks. * Swelling, lumps or bumps on the lips, gums or other areas inside the mouth. * White, red, or dark patches in the mouth. * Repeated bleeding in the mouth. * Numbness, loss of feeling. or pain in any area of the face, mouth or neck. A doctor should be seen if any of the above signs are present. Often lip and oral cavity cancers are found by dentists when examining the teeth. Risks For Developing Oral Cancer * The use of tobacco products. * Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. * Exposed to sunlight on a regular basis. * Having habits such as lip biting and cheek chewing. * Having ill-fitting dentures. Understandind the causative factors also contribute to prevention and control of oral cancer. The most common related factor that may contribute to developing cancer is age. About 95% of oral cancers occur in persons older than 40. Treatment Option There are treatments for all patients with oral cavity cancers: * Surgery- the doctor may remove the cancer and some healthy tissue around the cancer. * Radiation Therapy- the use of high energy x-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. * Chemotherapy- uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemo may be taken by pill, or may be given in an IV. Oral Self Examination To perform the oral self exam, follow the following 7 easy steps. Look at and feel your: 1. Head and Neck - look at your face and neck in a mirror. Look for any lumps, bumps, or swellings that are only on one side of your face. Go To Page: 1 2 |
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