Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in India, largely due to the widespread use of tobacco in smoked and smokeless forms, as well as excessive alcohol consumption. It can affect the tongue, cheeks, lips, gums, or the floor and roof of the mouth. Warning signs include a mouth ulcer that does not heal, a persistent lump, white or red patches inside the mouth, difficulty swallowing, persistent pain, or unexplained bleeding.

Early-stage oral cancer is often highly treatable, but delayed diagnosis can make treatment more complex. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining good oral hygiene, and undergoing regular oral examinations are important preventive measures. Any mouth ulcer or growth lasting longer than two weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional without delay.