Battling Oral Cancer: Treatment Options, Survival Rates, Early Signs, and Prevention

November 25, 2023

Smile Circle is committed to connecting patients with local dentists who can address their diverse dental needs. In this blog, we delve into a critical topic: oral cancer. We’ll explore the various treatment options available, survival rates, early signs to watch for, and essential prevention strategies. Let’s empower ourselves with the knowledge to combat cancer.

Understanding Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. It’s essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms, as early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Early Signs and Symptoms
1. Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal
2. Unexplained white or red patches in the mouth
3. Lumps or thickening of the oral tissues
4. Difficulty chewing or swallowing
5. Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
6. Numbness in the mouth or tongue
7. Unexplained weight loss

Treatment Options for Oral Cancer

1. Surgery: Depending on the extent and location of the cancer, surgery may involve removing the tumour or affected tissues, lymph nodes, or even reconstructive surgery for severe cases.

2. Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams are used to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

3. Chemotherapy: Medications are administered either orally or intravenously to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. Chemotherapy is often used when cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

4. Targeted Therapy: This treatment targets specific molecules involved in cancer growth. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation.

5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. It’s a promising approach in the treatment of oral cancer.

Survival Rates

Survival rates for oral cancer vary based on factors like the stage at diagnosis, overall health, and treatment approach. On average:

The 5-year survival rate for localised oral cancer is approximately 83%.

When cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, the 5-year survival rate drops to around 66%.

If cancer has metastasised to distant parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate is about 39%.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

Preventing oral cancer involves adopting a few simple yet crucial habits:

1. Avoid Tobacco: Smoking and using smokeless tobacco products significantly increase the risk of oral cancer. Quitting smoking and tobacco use is the most effective prevention step.

2. Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption is another risk factor. Reducing alcohol intake can lower your risk.

3. Protect from the Sun: Use lip balm with sunblock and avoid excessive sun exposure to the lips.

4. Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables may lower the risk of oral cancer.

5. Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine dental visits can help in the early detection of oral cancer.

Oral cancer is a serious condition, but with early detection and advances in treatment, the chances of successful recovery are significantly improved. Regular dental check-ups are essential in monitoring oral health and catching potential issues early on. Smile Circle is here to assist you in finding local dentists who can provide the care and support you need. Prioritise your oral health and take steps to reduce your risk of oral cancer. Your well-being is worth it.

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