CAUSES & PREVENTION OF ORAL CANCER

It is estimated that 20000 people per lakh people in India suffer from the risk of oral cancer. Bihar in particular is considered as the oral cancer capital of the country. The reasons for the same are the rampant use of tobacco, gutka and khaini. The use of the same starts in the primitive years until it becomes a habit till old age.

SUGGESTIVE CAUSES OF ORAL CANCER IN INDIA

1. Smoking: Cigarette, Cigar or pipe smokers are 6 times more at risk than non-smokers.

2. Smokeless tobacco users: User of dip, snuff or chewing tobacco products are 50 times more likely to develop cancers of cheek, gums and lining of lips.

3. Immunosuppression: It can be decided as the aspect in which the efficiency of the body to fight against diseases is curtailed. The immune system of the patient is compromised and hence the patient becomes more prone to contract oral cancer.
4. Excessive sun exposure, especially at young age.
5. HPV – (Human Papilloma Virus).
   HPV strains denotes OSCC {Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinama}. The same types of HPV that infect the genital areas can infect the mouth and throat. HPV found in the mouth and throat is called “oral HPV.” Some types of oral HPV (known as “high risk types”) can cause cancers of the head and neck area
6. Dental Hygine, constant chronic trauma to mucosa due to dental causes :-
   Poor oral and dental hygiene, sharp teeth, ill fitting denture, sharp crown and bridges etc are factors which may contribute to oral cancer.

It’s a real and stated fact that in 25% of the cases oral cancer occurs in people who do not smoke and who only drink alcohol occasionally. Hence the other risk factors that have been listed are also equally responsible for causing oral cancer.

PREVENTION OF ORAL CANCER

The preventive aspects to ensure that you are not at risk of developing oral cancer are simple and lifestyle oriented. They are all based on the fact that life modifications can have a positive and preventive aspect in your life.

1. Always brush and floss teeth regularly. An unhealthy mouth reduces immune system and inhibits the body’s ability to fight against cancerous cells.
2. Never Drink alcohol
3. Don’t smoke or chew any type of tobacco product :It’sdangerous and hazardous for the body and oral health.

4. Limit Exposure to Sun: Repeated exposure of sun light increases the risk of cancer on the lips [especially on lower lips].
5. Exercise Regularly: An active lifestyle boosts up the immune system

CANCER- FIGHTING FOODS IN DIET:
To prevent cancer one should add few diet products to ensure that you are protected against oral cancer. You can eat – Beans, Berries, Cabbage, Leafy vegetables, Green Tea, Tomatoes. Research has proved that they have anti cancer properties.

SELF EXAMINATION FOR ORAL CANCER:

One should visit the dentist and opt for a for routine checkup. This is especially advised for people who smoke or eat pan/tobacco. One Conduct a self exam atleast once a month by following the steps given below:

• A handy mouth mirror from pharmacist.
• Place a normal mirror in front of face.
• Check tongue (ventrally and dorsally).
• Check oral, mucosa ,palate, lips, vestibule and if any complications found then
  visit a dentist.