Oral Cancer: The Silent Threat You Shouldn’t Ignore

Many people overlook small changes in their mouths—like sores, swelling, or numbness—without realizing these could be early signs of oral cancer.

This disease often develops quietly, and by the time symptoms appear, it may already be advanced.

In India, oral cancer affects over 77,000 people each year, causing more than 52,000 deaths.

The main risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HPV infection, poor oral hygiene, and excessive sun exposure.

Warning signs include mouth sores that don’t heal, red or white patches, difficulty swallowing, lumps, bleeding, or numbness.

If any symptom lasts longer than two weeks, see a dentist or specialist immediately.

Early detection can raise survival rates to over 80%, while late diagnosis reduces them sharply.

Avoiding tobacco and alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and having regular dental checkups twice a year are simple but powerful steps to prevent this disease.

Your mouth can reveal more than you think—don’t ignore the signs.