Understanding the Causes of Oral Cavity Cancer
The causes of oral cavity cancer are influenced by a variety of factors that affect the health of the tissues in the mouth. Gaining insight into these underlying causes can help in understanding how the disease develops and what steps may be taken to reduce risk or support early detection. While some causes are avoidable, others may be linked to genetic or environmental influences. Being informed empowers individuals to make proactive choices for their oral and overall health.
What are the Causes of Oral Cavity Cancer and the Risk Factors Associated with it?
How risky is mouth cancer? Oral cancer may have risks attached to it.
Multiple elements can contribute to an increased risk of developing oral cancer. Being aware of these risk factors plays a major role in early detection and prevention efforts. Here are some common ones:
Using tobacco, in any form, smoking cigars or cigarettes and even pipe smoking, or the use of chewing tobacco, is one of the major risk factors for oral cancer.
There are cancer-causing agents in tobacco that can harm your mouth cells’ structural makeup, together with the throat linings, which would then lead to eventual changes turning into cancerous growths over time.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially HPV type 16, is a known risk factor for oropharyngeal cancer, which affects parts of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils.
Cell changes caused by HPV have the potential to develop into cancer.
Regular, heavy alcohol consumption can irritate cells in the mouth and throat, making them more susceptible to cancer.
Alcohol also increases the harmful effects of tobacco, further increasing your risk.
Apart from the above-mentioned risk factors, the following are some more you should consider, which include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor dental care and hygiene can lead to chronic infection and inflammation, increasing your risk of cancer.
- Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase your risk of oral cancer because these foods contain antioxidants and other compounds that help protect cells.
- Age and Gender: Oral cancer is more common in people over 40 and is more common in men than women.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun increases your risk of lip cancer because UV radiation damages the skin cells on your lips.
Is oral cancer deadly? Yes, but you can reduce your risk of oral cancer by understanding these risk factors and taking preventive measures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What causes oral cavity cancer?
A. Oral cavity cancer can be caused by a mix of lifestyle, environmental, and biological factors that affect the tissues in the mouth.
Q2. Is oral cavity cancer always linked to lifestyle choices?
A. Not always. While lifestyle plays a major role, genetics and certain infections can also contribute to the development of this cancer.
Q3. Can the causes of oral cavity cancer be prevented?
A. Many risk factors can be reduced or avoided, but not all causes are preventable. Awareness and early detection remain key.
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Author Bio:
Dr. Yashashree Joshi – MBBS, MD (Philippines)
Dr. Yashashree Joshi, MD, is a globally-trained oncologist with a robust academic background and extensive experience in pioneering cancer treatments. Dedicated to patient-centered care, she continually integrates the latest advancements in oncology to provide her patients with innovative and personalized treatment plans.
Content Medically Reviewed By MedicoExperts Editorial & Clinically Review Board
