Oral cancer, or mouth cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth and throat. It develops in the mouth and throat. It can affect various parts, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the back of the throat. While it might seem uncommon, it's important to be aware of its symptoms and risk factors.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

• Persistent sore throat
• Mouth sores that don't heal
• White or red patches in the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Loose teeth
• Numbness or tingling in the mouth
• A lump in the neck
• Hoarseness

Causes of Oral Cancer

• Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are major risk factors.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol use, especially combined with smoking, increases risk.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Certain types of HPV can lead to oral cancer.
• Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting oral hygiene can contribute to the development of oral cancer.
• Sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure to the lips can increase the risk of lip cancer.

Treatment Options

The treatment for oral cancer depends on the stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the cancerous tissue is a primary treatment option for early-stage oral cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Medications are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
• Immunotherapy: This treatment boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: This therapy targets specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth.

 Best Hospitals in India for Oral CancerTreatment

• Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
• AIIMS, New Delhi
• Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
• Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
• Max Healthcare, New Delhi
• Jaypee Hospital, Noida
• Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon

 Best Doctors for Mouth Cancer Treatment 

• Dr. Harit Chaturvedi
• Dr. Kapil Kumar
• Dr. Ashok Vaid
• Dr. Ishita B. Sen
• Dr Indranil Ghosh
• Dr. Rajesh Mistry
• Dr. Vinod Raina  
• Dr. V. P. Bhalla  
• Dr. Vinodh Kumar
• Dr. Arun Goel
• Dr Hari Goyal

Cost of Oral Cancer Treatment in India 

New Delhi                   – USD 1450

Chennai                      – USD 1485

Mumbai                      – USD 1520

Bangalore                   – USD 1450

FAQs

-What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth and throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and floor of the mouth.

-What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

Symptoms include persistent sore throat, mouth sores, white or red patches, difficulty chewing or swallowing, loose teeth, numbness, a lump in the neck, and hoarseness.

-What causes oral cancer?

Major risk factors include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, HPV infection, and poor oral hygiene.

-How is oral cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a thorough oral examination, biopsy, and imaging tests like CT scans and MRI.

-What are the treatment options for oral cancer?

Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.

-What is the prognosis for oral cancer?

The prognosis for oral cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment.

-Can oral cancer be prevented?

Reducing risk factors like tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and HPV infection can help prevent oral cancer.

-What is the role of oral hygiene in preventing oral cancer?

Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help reduce the risk of oral cancer.

-Can oral cancer spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, oral cancer can spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes and lungs.

-What is the importance of early detection of oral cancer?

Early detection and treatment of oral cancer significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.