Oral Cancer Risk Factors

Oral cancer affects the tissues of the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and mouth. It may first appear as a red or white patch or sore in the mouth that does not heal. It may be accompanied by bleeding, numbness or soreness, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and a change in the jaw structure or voice.

A number of factors are known to increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes can increase the risk of developing oral cancer by as much as 6 times. The risk increases by both the amount smoked as well as the length of time tobacco products are used.

Alcohol also increases the risk of developing oral cancer. Between 75 and 80% of those diagnosed with oral cancer consume alcoholic beverages , and when excessive alcohol consumption is combined with tobacco use, the risks for oral cancer increase even more.

Some strains of human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, a sexually transmitted disease that if left untreated, can cause cervical cancer, has been linked to oral cancer as well. Although smoking is the biggest lifestyle-related risk factor for oral cancer, those with HPV-related oral cancer are currently increasing in numbers more rapidly.

Other oral cancer risk factors include a family history of oral cancer, sun exposure, age, exposure to carcinogens, nutritional deficiencies, or an immune system deficiency.

Self-exams can be helpful in the prevention or early detection of oral cancer, but regular dental visits are very important. Successful treatment is more likely the earlier any cancer is detected.

Source: North Hollywood Dentist

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