Mouth cancer is one of the most common cancers among men in India. In fact India carries the highest burden of oral cancer globally. This is what makes early detection even more crucial.
A radiation oncologist expert from Prague, Dr Jiri Kubes points out at a mouth complaint that becomes concerning if it doesn’t heal for more than 3 weeks. The symptom is mouth ulcers on the inside of the mouth.
Dr Kubes said, “Mouth ulcers are really common and they are rarely seen as a sign of anything serious.” But the doctor warns that if a person is getting persistent mouth sores that stay longer than three weeks, they should get it tested by a doctor or a dentist.”
Common symptoms of mouth cancer
While mouth ulcers are one symptom of mouth cancer, other more common symptoms include unusual and persistent lumps and bumps in the mouth as well as neck that won’t go away. Unexplained pain and difficulty in swallowing are also two common signs along with unexplained weight loss, an abnormally hoarse voice and while or red patches in the mouth.
Dr Kubes, who specialises in proton beam therapy at a therapy center in Prague said that a normal looking inside of the mouth is pink and healthy. This is the ideal situation. He encourages people to get into the habit of looking at the inside of their mouth regularly. “Pay attention to any unusual changes, especially if you smoke as this can put you at a higher risk.” The same applies for people who use tobacco.
He recommends further self tests. “Look all around your tongue for any changes and look for any lumps or discolouration on the inside of both your top and bottom lip. These symptoms are common and can be caused by other conditions, but it is always best to check,” as told to Express UK.
According to the Mouth Cancer Foundation, just one in five adults are aware of the major signs and symptoms of mouth cancer and that leads to delayed diagnosis and larger mortality rate.