Mouth canc3r is a type of head and throat canc3r, usually affecting people over 40, with men at higher risk. In India this year, “77,003 new cases of mouth canc3r have been recorded… and 52,067 people have passed away.” It often spreads to the lymph nodes before being noticed, but early detection greatly improves survival.

The disease can appear on the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, or lower mouth. Experts advise dental checks twice a year and immediate consultation if symptoms show. Common signs include “a non-healing blister on the lips or mouth, enlargement or swelling, bleeding, loose teeth, difficulty swallowing, earache, unexplained weight loss, numbness, red or white patches, throat pain, jaw stiffness, or tongue pain.”

Major causes are tobacco in any form, heavy alcohol use, and smoking. Canc3r progresses in four stages, from a small localized tumor (Stage 1) to widespread spread to tissues and organs (Stage 4).

Treatment depends on the stage and includes surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted drug therapy, often in combination. “80% of cases are related to tobacco use,” with most diagnoses around age 50.

If detected early, survival is about 82%, but late diagnosis lowers it to 27%. Regular dental care and awareness are key to prevention.