Oral Cancer, CARE2CURE

Overview

What is oral cancer?

India has one of the highest rates of oral cancer in the world, roughly one-third of all global cases occur here. The leading culprit is tobacco in its many forms (gutka, paan masala, khaini, cigarettes, bidis). Oral cancer is largely preventable, and early-stage cases have a 5-year survival rate of over 80%.

⚠ Risk Factors

Tobacco use in any form, chewing, smoking, gutka, paan masala, khaini
Heavy alcohol consumption (especially combined with tobacco)
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection
Chronic irritation from broken teeth or ill-fitting dentures
Poor oral hygiene
Excessive sun exposure (for lip cancer)
Family history of head and neck cancers

🔍 Symptoms to Watch

A mouth sore or ulcer that doesn't heal within 2 weeks
A white or red patch (leukoplakia or erythroplakia) inside the mouth
Persistent pain in the mouth or ear
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue or jaw
A lump or thickening in the cheek, gums, tongue, or neck
Unexplained loosening of teeth or jaw swelling
Numbness in the tongue or mouth
Persistent bad breath

🩺 Screening & Detection

Self-exam: Look in the mirror monthly. Feel along your cheeks, gums, tongue, and under jaw.
Dental check-up: Every 6 months. Dentists are trained to spot early signs.
Visual oral screening: Recommended annually for anyone using tobacco.
Biopsy: Any suspicious patch lasting more than 2 weeks should be biopsied.

🛡 Prevention

Stop using tobacco in every form (including gutka, paan masala, khaini)
Limit alcohol consumption
Get the HPV vaccine if eligible (recommended up to age 26, sometimes older)
Maintain good oral hygiene, brush twice daily, floss, see a dentist regularly
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
Use lip balm with SPF if you spend long hours in the sun

When should you see a doctor?

Any mouth ulcer, patch, or lump lasting more than 2 weeks needs a doctor or dentist visit. Tobacco users should get screened annually, even without symptoms. Quitting tobacco is the single most important step you can take.

Talk to Care2Cure →

A note: The information on this page is for awareness and education only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health or any symptoms, please consult a qualified oncologist or your primary doctor. Care2Cure is happy to help you connect with a specialist, just email care2cureorg@gmail.com.