Pingtung Branch of Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital
Understanding Oral Cancer
1.What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancers that occur in the oral cavity, including the lips, floor of the mouth, tongue, gums, hard and soft palates, and cheeks. Oral cancer is one of the top ten causes of death in Taiwan, with the mortality rate for male patients being three to four times higher than that for female patients. The incidence of oral cancer in Taiwan is closely linked to betel nut chewing, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
2.Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer may show no noticeable signs at first. However, if you experience long-term, non-healing ulcers in the mouth, white or red patches inside the mouth, or unexplained hard lumps in the surrounding muscles or protruding bone structures, you should visit a dental clinic or hospital for an examination. For people who chew betel nuts, the oral mucosa may become fibrotic, and regular dental check-ups are essential. Additionally, if there are any white, red, or brown patches in the oral mucosa, you should also have them checked regularly.
3.How to Prevent and Detect Oral Cancer Early
- Do not chew betel nut.
- Avoid consuming excessively hot food and strong alcoholic drinks.
- Do not smoke.
- If you have remaining tooth roots or ill-fitting dentures, seek dental treatment as soon as possible.
- Frequently check your mouth for white patches or other unknown spots; if any are found, visit a dentist for an examination.
- If there are any unexplained lumps or swelling in the oral mucosa or bones, consult a dentist immediately.
- If there is a mouth ulcer that does not heal within two weeks, seek dental care promptly.
- Maintain a balanced diet with regular, nutritious meals.
- Brush and rinse your mouth regularly to maintain good oral hygiene.
4.Treatment of Oral Cancer
The treatment of oral cancer depends on the location and source of the tumor. Surgery is the primary treatment method, and additional treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be considered based on the tumor’s stage. For larger tumors, neoadjuvant chemotherapy may be used to reduce the tumor size, making surgery easier. The treatment outcomes vary based on the tumor’s origin, extent, and individual patient factors. However, early detection and prompt treatment can significantly improve survival rates and prognosis.