Oral cancer is when a tumour develops in the lining of the mouth. The tumour can be on the surface of the tongue, the insides of the cheeks, the roof (palate) or floor of the mouth, the gums or the lips.   Oral cancers are NOT very common and accounts for only around 2-3% of all cancers.  They are usually found in older adults over the age of 50 years

Main Causes of Oral Cancers are

• Tobacco smoking
• Betel nut chewing
• Ill-fitting dentures
• Human Papilloma Virus
• Spicy hot foods
• Excessive alcohol consumption

Click to view BeyondFive video on Oral Cancer

Symptoms & Signs of oral cancer

• Ulcer in the mouth which is NOT painful and NOT healing
• Mass or swelling
• Neck swelling
• Unexplained loose tooth which does NOT heal
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth

Treatment of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is treated by a team of doctors and health professionals which include the ENT surgeon, Dentist, Maxillo-Facial surgeon, Speech Therapist and Oncologist.  Treatment options may involve

• Surgery & reconstruction
• Intensive Modulated Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy

How to self examine yourself for Oral Cancer if you are at risk

See your ENT specialist if you have any unusual lesions in your mouth

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