The threat of oral cancer

CEBU, Philippines – You've got that pearly white teeth and the killer Hollywood smile. Add to it the fresh breath after mouthwash.  Now, the question is: Are you orally healthy? Really? Think again.

Among other things, we put too much effort on our oral health. We worry when a black patch has started to invade our tooth. Some people invest in teeth bleaching to have fresh sparkling teeth. Some avoid the sugary drinks and fruit juices that can erode the tooth enamel.

On the other hand, we hear about tooth decay, especially among young children. There's even a report warning about the link between our gums and heart disease.

One of the growing threats researchers have found out is the rare yet scary incidence of oral cancer, or mouth cancer. It's scary because it can affect everyone. It can appear in a number of different forms and affect all parts of the mouth, oral cavity, throat, tongue, and lips - and can be life-threatening if not treated early. This time, your mint mouthwash could not save you from this disease.

Though the disease is rare, oral cancer can appear as painless mouth ulcers or unusual lumps that do not heal for more than three weeks; and often, we easily take for granted the red or white patches in our mouth or the sores that do not go away.

According to the website www.mouthcancer.org, mouth cancers are more common in people over 40, particularly men. However, research has shown that it is also becoming more common in younger patients and in women.

Other common symptoms of oral cancer include lumps or bumps, swellings, rough spots, uncommon bleeding in the mouth, difficulty chewing, and dramatic weight loss, among others. If you notice any of these changes, contact your dentist or health care professional immediately.

This is the reason why regular appointments with your dentist are crucial, as he may spot these signs of oral cancer before you do. Check-ups and early detection can save you; and having an expert eye take a look does not hurt.

Not only tobacco smoking can cause bad breath and stains on your teeth, it is, by far, the biggest risk factor of oral cancer. Tobacco smoke is composed of numerous types of gases like lead, arsenic, and cyanide. The longer you smoke, the higher the risk of acquiring the disease and other cancers such as that of the throat, larynx (voice box), and salivary glands.

Excessive alcohol intake also increases the risk of oral cancer, and if tobacco and alcohol are consumed together, the risk is even higher. The International Agency for Research on Cancer, an intergovernmental agency, recently found excessive use of mouthwash can also increase the risk.

With the different types of cancers, early detection is the primary key for a higher survival rate. If oral cancer is detected at an early stage, its survival rate is at 90 percent. The five- and ten-year survival rates are 56 percent and 41 percent, respectively.

It helps to do an oral self-examination at home. Using a mirror, check your lips, gums, and teeth. Tilt your head to see the roof of your mouth. Pull out your tongue and look at the surfaces, especially the floor of the mouth.

Gently touch the back of your neck and under your jaw for lumps or abnormal lymph nodes. When brushing your teeth, look for any changes in color or appearance of your mouth. If you notice any red or white patches or ulcers, call your dentist immediately.

The Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. advises the public, as always, that early detection is one of the ways to prevent cancer. The earlier the cancer abnormalities are detected, the higher the chances of survival.  Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables also provides good protection against oral cancer.

Cancer is a very real and serious threat. The early symptoms we notice are clues that something is not going right in our bodies.

(Reference: www.mouthcancer.org)