Oral Cancer: Screening, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth, throat, tongue, and lips. It is a serious health condition that can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated in its early stages. According to the American Cancer Society, over 54,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer in 2021, and around 10,850 people will die from it.
The good news is that oral cancer is treatable if detected early. Screening, diagnosis, and treatment are critical steps in managing oral cancer, but prevention is also essential. In this article, we will discuss oral cancer and how to screen, diagnose, treat, and prevent it.
Screening
Oral cancer screening is a process that involves examining your mouth, lips, tongue, and throat for any signs of cancer. Screening is usually performed during routine dental checkups by a dentist or oral health professional.
During an oral cancer screening, the dentist or oral health professional will examine your mouth, tongue, and throat for any abnormalities, such as red or white patches, sores that do not heal, lumps, or rough spots. They will also feel the tissues in your mouth and throat to check for any lumps or other abnormalities.
Diagnosis
If your dentist or oral health professional finds any abnormalities during your screening, they will refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor for further testing. The doctor will perform a biopsy to confirm whether the abnormal cells are cancerous.
Treatment
Treatment for oral cancer depends on the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall health. The primary treatments for oral cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Surgery may involve removing the cancerous cells or the affected tissue, such as the tongue, jaw, or throat. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are typically used in conjunction with surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Prevention
Preventing oral cancer involves reducing the risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing it. Some of the risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV), and a weakened immune system. Learn more.
One of the best ways to prevent oral cancer is to avoid tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco. Limiting alcohol consumption can also reduce the risk of oral cancer. HPV vaccination and maintaining good oral hygiene can also help prevent oral cancer.
The Importance of Using a Professional Dentist
It is crucial to use a professional dentist or oral health professional for oral cancer screening and diagnosis. While there are at-home screening kits available, they are not as accurate as professional screening. Moreover, only a professional dentist or oral health professional can perform a biopsy and confirm whether the abnormal cells are cancerous.
Regular dental checkups can also help detect oral cancer in its early stages. If you experience any symptoms of oral cancer, such as mouth sores that do not heal, difficulty swallowing, or changes in your voice, you should consult with your dentist or oral health professional immediately.
In conclusion, oral cancer is a serious health condition that requires prompt detection and treatment. Oral cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment are critical steps in managing the disease, and prevention is also essential. By avoiding risk factors, maintaining good oral hygiene, and seeking professional dental care, you can reduce your risk of developing oral cancer and increase your chances of successful treatment if diagnosed. Next article.