MOUTH AND NECK CANCER Explained by Dr. DEEPANSHU GURNANI || Symptoms & Treatment || Hello Doctor

Описание: Mouth and neck cancers are malignancies developing in the lips, mouth, throat, or neck structures, often appearing as persistent, non-healing ulcers, lumps, red/white patches, or swallowing difficulties. Primarily caused by tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and HPV, these cancers are frequently treatable if diagnosed early. Treatment usually involves surgery, often followed by radiation or chemotherapy.
Key Aspects of Mouth and Neck Cancer
Common Locations: These cancers typically form in the oral cavity (lips, tongue, gums, cheek lining, hard palate) and the pharynx (throat).
Key Symptoms:
A persistent ulcer, sore, or lump in the mouth or neck lasting more than 3 weeks.
Unexplained bleeding, numbness, or pain in the mouth or face.
Difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking.
White (leukoplakia) or red (erythroplakia) patches in the mouth.
Loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit.
Main Causes and Risk Factors:
Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco.
Alcohol: Frequent and heavy alcohol consumption.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Specifically linked to many throat cancers.
Other: Poor oral hygiene, sun exposure (for lip cancer), and HPV infection.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis: Requires an evaluation by a specialist, which may include biopsy, endoscopy, and imaging (CT, MRI, PET scans).
Treatment: Surgery is the primary treatment, often combined with radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy may also be used.
Prevention: Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, practicing good oral hygiene, using sunscreen on lips, and receiving the HPV vaccine can reduce risk.