Overview of Oral Cancer: Risk Factors and Common Sites
Oral cancer can arise in different areas of the mouth and throat, such as the tongue, tonsils, oropharynx, gums, floor of the mouth, lips, cheek lining, and hard palate. While anyone can be affected, men are twice as likely as women to develop this disease. Men over 50 who smoke heavily and drink alcohol regularly are especially vulnerable. Other significant risk factors include:
- UV Radiation: Exposure to sunlight or sunlamps.
- Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease (GERD): Persistent acid reflux.
- Previous Radiation Treatment: Prior radiation to the head and neck.
- Chemical Exposure: Contact with certain harmful substances.
- Poor Diet: Nutritional deficiencies.
Recent advancements in early detection and treatment have resulted in a decrease in oral cancer mortality rates. However, there has been a rise in cases of oropharyngeal cancer, largely attributed to the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).
The Importance of Awareness in Oral Cancer
Oral cancer, despite being among the top ten most common cancers globally, has made significant strides in research, prevention, detection, and treatment. These advancements have greatly enhanced patient outcomes, with a survival rate of over 80% when the cancer is caught early.
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