Overview
Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in Pakistan, largely due to tobacco, paan, gutka and betel nut use. Early detection greatly improves outcomes.
Symptoms
- A mouth ulcer that does not heal within three weeks
- A white or red patch in the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the mouth or neck
- Pain or difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Loose teeth
- Restricted mouth opening
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include smoking, chewing tobacco, naswar, paan, gutka and betel nut, alcohol, HPV infection and poor oral hygiene. Oral submucous fibrosis increases the risk.
Diagnosis
A doctor examines the mouth and takes a biopsy. Scans check for spread.
Treatment
Treatment includes surgery, sometimes with reconstruction, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or dentist for any mouth ulcer, patch or lump lasting more than three weeks. Stopping tobacco, paan and gutka reduces the risk.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
