Maintaining good health requires preventing mouth cancer. If treatment for oral cancer is delayed, it can result in severe effects and impact the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat, among other regions of the mouth. Developing good dental hygiene, avoiding alcohol intake, and abstaining from tobacco products are just a few examples of healthy practices that can dramatically lower the risk of oral cancer.

Additionally, frequent dental checkups facilitate the early discovery of problems or tumors, resulting in more effective treatment and faster recovery times. A balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables can also supply vital nutrients that maintain dental health and may help reduce the incidence of oral cancer.

Good dental hygiene, avoiding alcohol, and abstaining from tobacco can significantly reduce the risk.(Image Credit:Canva)

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Jaipalreddy Pogal, who is a surgical oncologist at the TGH Onco-Life Cancer Centre at Talegaon, talked about the vital tips to prevent oral cancer.

Oral cancer is a serious, deadly disease that often goes undiagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage. It is caused by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. One of the main causes of oral cancer is tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco. The chemicals present in tobacco products can damage the cells in the mouth and throat, increasing the risk of developing cancer over time. Another cause of this fatal cancer is excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol tends to irritate the tissues in the mouth and lead to abnormal changes in cell growth, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of oral cancer. Poor oral hygiene habits, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, can also raise the chances of suffering from oral cancer by allowing harmful bacteria to thrive in the mouth.

Dr. Jaipalreddy Shared The Common Symptoms Of Oral Cancer

Persistent mouth sores, mouth or lip ulcers that do not heal, unexplained bleeding in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing or chewing.

Did you know? Even having a sore throat for a long time, hoarseness, numbness in the mouth or lips, and changes in your voice.

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Early detection is necessary for a successful treatment outcome for the disease. It is essential to seek timely treatment, which is key to managing cancer and improving the quality of life for patients. Adhere to the instructions given by the expert, and you will surely be able to battle oral cancer.

What Are The Preventive Measures For Oral Cancer?

Stop using tobacco in any form right away! Whether you chew raw tobacco or consume gutka, it is a leading cause of oral cancer in the country.

Frequent dental checkups and a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, can also help detect and treat oral cancer early.(Image Credit:Canva)

Smoking (cigarettes, bidi, pipes, or hookah) is known to be a major contributor to oral cancer. Betel nut or supari alone poses a significant risk for oral cancer and is a key ingredient in pan masala.

Quit alcohol as it causes oral cancer, with its carcinogenic effects increasing when consumed with tobacco.

Regular dental check-ups can allow for the detection of any unwanted changes in the mouth that may indicate the presence of oral cancer. By taking proactive steps to maintain oral health, individuals can increase their chances of detecting oral cancer early and improving their overall prognosis.

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Perform a monthly visual inspection of your mouth to check for any persistent ulcers, bleeding areas, unusual patches, or swelling. These could indicate cancer, and catching it early will allow prompt treatment.