Lip and oral cavity cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the lips or lining of the mouth. It is the 15th most common cancer worldwide and the 8th most common cancer in men.
The most common symptom of lip and oral cavity cancer is a lump or sore in the mouth that does not heal. Other symptoms may include pain, bleeding, numbness, and difficulty chewing or swallowing.
The cause of lip and oral cavity cancer is not fully understood, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including smoking, tobacco use, alcohol use, and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The risk of developing lip and oral cavity cancer increases with age, and it is more common in men than women.
The treatment for lip and oral cavity cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, but it may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Risk factors for lip and oral cavity cancer
The following are the major risk factors for lip and oral cavity cancer:
- Smoking: Smoking is the biggest risk factor for lip and oral cavity cancer. Smokeless tobacco use, such as chewing tobacco and snuff, also increases the risk.
- Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use is another major risk factor for lip and oral cavity cancer.
- Sun exposure: Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds can increase the risk of lip cancer.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a virus that can cause cancer. Some types of HPV are linked to an increased risk of oral cancer.
- Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
- Certain genetic conditions: Certain genetic conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, can increase the risk of lip and oral cavity cancer.
Symptoms of lip and oral cavity cancer
The most common symptom of lip and oral cavity cancer is a lump or sore in the mouth that does not heal. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Numbness
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Thickening of the lining of the mouth
- Redness or white patches in the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Ear pain
Diagnosis of lip and oral cavity cancer
The diagnosis of lip and oral cavity cancer is made by a doctor or dentist. They will examine your mouth and lips and may take a biopsy of the suspicious area. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small piece of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.
Treatment for lip and oral cavity cancer
The treatment for lip and oral cavity cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, but it may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
- Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for lip and oral cavity cancer. The type of surgery performed will depend on the size and location of the cancer.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, or as the only treatment for early-stage cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, or as the only treatment for advanced cancer.
Prognosis for lip and oral cavity cancer
The prognosis for lip and oral cavity cancer depends on the stage of the cancer when it is diagnosed. The overall 5-year survival rate for lip and oral cavity cancer is 65%. However, the survival rate is much higher for early-stage cancer than for advanced cancer.
Prevention of lip and oral cavity cancer
The best way to prevent lip and oral cavity cancer is to avoid the risk factors. This includes not smoking, not using smokeless tobacco, and limiting alcohol use. You should also practice good oral hygiene and get regular dental checkups.
If you have any of the symptoms of lip and oral cavity cancer, see your doctor or dentist right away. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for a good outcome.
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