Oral cancer is the eleventh most prevalent cancer in the world, according to the World Health Organization. Oral cancer is more likely in people who use tobacco and drink too much alcohol. Over 90% of oral cancers are caused by these factors, which are linked to nutritional deficiencies. As a result, cutting down on alcohol and tobacco usage, as well as eating more fruits and vegetables, can help to minimise the risk of oral cancer.

Early identification via screening is the first step toward oral cancer treatment if primary preventative measures fail.

 

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Proper Oral Hygiene Matters

Many people just think about getting rid of bad breath and avoiding cavities when it comes to oral health. We don't give much thought to the best ways to prevent mouth cancer.

Oral cancer can manifest itself in a variety of ways that are difficult to detect. Irritation or discomfort are not always visible in patients. As a result, this cancer is often misdiagnosed. Practicing proper dental hygiene is a better strategy to begin preventing mouth cancer. This will not only keep your teeth free of cavities, but it will also reduce the risks of cancer cells growing in your mouth at an early stage.

Oral Cancer Prevention Tips

These are the four most important tips, as listed by the head and neck cancer surgeon in Kolkata, for the prevention of oral cancer.

  1. Avoid Tobacco

You're more likely to acquire mouth cancer if you smoke a lot of cigarettes. Tobacco, both smokeless and smoking, has a significant influence in the development of this malignancy. People who smoke, chew, or put tobacco directly in their mouth are more prone to get leukoplakia, which are cancerous grey-white ulcers.

  1. Reduce your Alcohol Intake

Excessive alcohol consumption, like smoking, raises the risk of mouth cancer. Alcohol can alter a person's body chemistry while also weakening the body's natural defences against cancer cells.

If a person consumes more than 3 units of alcoholic drinks (250 ml of red or white wine/ a pint of higher-strength beer or lager) each day, their risk of mouth cancer increases by three times.

  1. Get Vaccinated against HPV

Oral cancer is connected to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV-related malignancies are more commonly found in men than in women. Swelling in the neck is the first symptom. However, if not treated promptly, the illness may worsen. It's recommended to get vaccinated against HPV before you start having sexual relations since these viruses are found on the surface of anus, cervix, vagina, head of the penis and vulva.

  1. Protect your Lips from the Sun's Rays

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun has been related to lip cancer. Lip cancer is more common in people who spend a lot of time outside, says the best head & neck cancer doctor.

If a person has a history of suffering terrible sunburns, they should take extra precautions when it comes to their lips. You should wear a lip balm with SPF before going out in the sun during peak hours, in addition to limiting your exposure to the sun during peak hours.