Mouth (oral) cancer is one of the most common cancers in India, largely due to tobacco and areca nut use. Early signs include a mouth ulcer that does not heal within two to three weeks, white or red patches, a lump or thickening in the cheek, and difficulty opening the mouth. Found early, mouth cancer is highly treatable.
Early Warning Signs
- Ulcer or sore in the mouth that does not heal in two to three weeks
- White or red patches on the gums, tongue, cheeks or palate
- A lump or thickening in the cheek, tongue or gums
- Pain or burning that does not go away
- Difficulty opening the mouth fully (trismus)
- Loose teeth without gum disease
- Dentures that suddenly do not fit
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Numbness in the tongue or lips
- A lump in the neck
Pre-Cancerous Conditions
- Leukoplakia: white patch that cannot be wiped off
- Erythroplakia: red patch, higher risk of cancer
- Oral submucous fibrosis: stiffening of the mouth lining, often from areca nut use, causing reduced mouth opening
These need regular monitoring or treatment.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
- Tobacco smokers and chewers
- Users of gutka, paan, areca nut or khaini
- Heavy alcohol users
- Poor oral hygiene
- Sharp teeth or ill-fitting dentures causing chronic irritation
- HPV infection for some throat cancers
How Is It Diagnosed?
- Clinical examination of the mouth and neck
- Biopsy of the suspicious area
- Imaging such as CT, MRI or PET-CT to check spread
How Is It Treated?
- Surgery: main treatment for most mouth cancers, removing the tumour with margins and often neck lymph nodes
- Reconstruction: to restore appearance and function
- Radiation or chemoradiation: after surgery in some cases
How Can You Reduce Risk?
- Stop all tobacco and areca nut use
- Limit alcohol
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Get dental problems fixed
- Do monthly self-checks of your mouth
Key Takeaways
- Mouth cancer is common in India.
- Non-healing ulcers and patches are early signs.
- Tobacco and areca nut are major causes.
- Any sore lasting two weeks needs checking.
- Early surgery gives good outcomes.
Final Thoughts
A small sore that does not heal may be your body's early warning. Acting quickly can save your life and preserve function. For head and neck cancer evaluation, you can consult Dr. Varadharajan, a surgical oncologist in Chennai.
