About Mouth Cancer – Detection & Prevention
Mouth cancer is a disease that starts as an uncontrolled growth of cells in the mouth. It can affect all parts of the mouth, whether people have their own teeth or are using dentures or any other appliance which can cause irritation. Sometimes, a white or red patch on the tongue may develop into cancer. However, most times cancer appears as a painless ulcer that does not clear up. Any such ulcer that does not heal within two weeks, may develop into mouth cancer. This can lead to disfigurement of the face, debility of the body and eventually death.
Detection
An individual can himself/herself detect any incoming cancerous lesion in the mouth:
- Any white or red patch or spot on the tongue, lips and inner side of the cheeks and throat.
- Move your finger on the inside of the cheek to feel for any painful or stiff area. Any hardness or abnormal nodule may also be felt.
- Any restriction in opening the mouth and chewing.
- Change/hoarseness of voice.
Prevention
Refrain from consuming any cancer-causing agents such as
- Tobacco,
- Paan (betel nut),
- Supari (areca nut),
- Katha,
- Burnt Food,
- Green Chillies,
- Concentrated alcoholic drinks,
- Spicy Food etc.
Avoid any Chronic Irritation
- Ill-fitting Dentures
- Broken, sharp, jagged teeth
Warning
- If normally there are no patches/ spots and stiffness or pain in opening the mouth.
- anything abnormal is noticed, please visit your Doctor or Dentist
Treatment
- Stop all causative habits/agents
- Surgical removal of the affected part
- Chemotherapy (treatment with anti- cancer medicines
- Laser therapy/Radiation therapy
- Dietary supplements like fresh fruits, Vitamins A, C, E & Anti-Oxidants
