ANONYMOUS CANCER Oral cancer is a cancer that grows and develops in our mouth. For example on the lips, tongue, gums, mouth wall, as w...
ANONYMOUS CANCER
Oral cancer is a cancer that grows and develops in our mouth. For example on the lips, tongue, gums, mouth wall, as well as the palate. This cancer can spread directly to the tissues around the mouth or through the lymph nodes. Among all cancer cases that happen, it is estimated that there are only two percent of oral cancer occur in the world. Therefore, this cancer belongs to a rare cancer. However, we should know and anticipate about this cancer.Oral cancer: Detections and Treatments
Most of oral cancer attacks the elderly aged 50-75 years and more common happen in men than in women. But this cancer can also occur in young adults, mainly as the result of HPV infection (human papillomavirus). The most common of oral cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma. It is estimated that approximately 90 percent of patients suffering from this type of oral cancer. Other types of oral cancer are oral malignant melanoma and adenocarcinoma. Oral Malignant Melanoma is a cancer that develops from melanocytes cells. Whereas adenocarcinoma is a cancer that attacks the salivary glands.
Such as cancer in general, the symptoms of oral cancer is also often and difficult to detect at the early stage. Therefore, we should be aware of the general symptoms, including:
A long period of sprue.Red or white patches in the mouth.A lumpin the mouth wall.Pain in the mouth, especially the tongue.Difficult or pain when swallowing and chewing.Voice changes.Having difficulty in speaking.Or sore throat.
The oral cancer symptoms also tend to be difficult to identify because they are often similar to other disease. Stay alert and immediately consult to a doctor if any of these symptoms do not recover for more than two weeks, especially for heavy smokers or who frequently consume liquor.
Oral cancer is caused by changes in the cells growth in the mouth or lips. The cause behind this mutation is not known certainty. However, there are several factors that are believed to trigger this cancer. Among others are:
Use different kinds kind of tobacco, such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.Excessive alcohol consumption.Infection with HPV (human papillomavirus).Bad dietary.Bad oral hygiene, for example, letting cavities or gum infections.Or chewing betel fruits.
Positive diagnosed patients with oral cancer will undergo further tests to detect the stage and level of the oral cancer growth which he suffered. This procedure can be done through endoscopy, x-rays, MRI scans, CT scans, and PET scans. By knowing the stage and level of the cancer growth in a patient, the doctor can determine the treatment steps that would need to be done. Along with the patient's medical condition and the location as well as the type of oral cancer which suffered.
Early stage oral cancer has the highest chances for a full recovery. While middle stage oral cancer may be curable. But the advanced stage oral cancer is generally not curable and treatments done will only to relieve symptoms and slow the spread of cancer. The treatment steps for oral cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. These three steps are often combined in order to obtain maximum results.
Early stage oral cancer can be treated with surgery using a laser beam. This procedure is called photodynamic therapy (PDT). But if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, then the removal tumor along with surrounding healthy tissue needs to be done. For example, the removal of half tissue in the mouth wall, tongue, or jaw. The doctor will then perform reconstructive surgery to reshape parts or tissue that is removed. The radiotherapy step is usually used after surgery to prevent the return of cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be done both outside and inside the body.
Because the cause is unknown, oral cancer can not be prevented completely. But you still can take simple steps to reduce the risks, such as:
Quit smoking and do not use tobacco in any form.Avoid or limit your alcohol consumption.Consume vegetables and fruits.Maintain oral hygiene, such as brushing teeth diligently.Dental health checked regularly, at least once a year.
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