Mouth cancer, often grouped with head and throat cancers, mostly affects men over 40. In India alone, 77,003 new cases and 52,067 deaths have been reported this year.

Early detection is key. “If oral cancer is detected early, the risk of life is low.” Types include lip, tongue, cheek, gum, and lower-mouth cancer. Symptoms often appear late but include non-healing mouth sores, pain, loose teeth, lumps, weight loss, and red or white patches. Not all symptoms mean cancer, but “if they do not go away…see your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.”

Major causes include smoking, tobacco use, and heavy alcohol consumption. Mouth cancer typically progresses through four stages, from small tumors to full-body spread.

Treatments include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. “Survival rates reach 82% if detected early,” but fall to 27% in advanced cases.

Dentists recommend mouth checks twice a year. “Indian people do not take special care of oral health,” which increases risk. Regular visits and early action are crucial for prevention and survival.