The secret files of oral cancer: How to outsmart this “invisible killer”?

Author: Jiang Yanbing: Huazhong University of Science and Technology School of Stomatology, Huazhong University School of Stomatology Postgraduate Science Lecture Team

Instructors: Yang Shengli, Wuhan Union Hospital; Chen Guangjin, Department of Stomatology, Wuhan Union Hospital

Oral cancer, an "invisible killer" lurking in our mouth, is a general term for malignant tumors that occur in the oral cavity. Oral cancer includes tumors that originate in the oral tongue (the front 2/3 of the tongue), buccal mucosa, gums, floor of mouth, and hard palate. It is the sixth most common area for malignant tumors in the world. Oral cancer can occur at any age, with the peak incidence at 40 to 60 years old. The five-year survival rate of early oral cancer can reach more than 90% with regular and systematic treatment, but once it progresses to the late stage, the survival rate will drop sharply by about 50%. Therefore, early detection and treatment of oral cancer are very important.

Today we will take a look at the mystery of oral cancer and teach you how to fight this health hazard and protect our oral fortress!

How does oral cancer, this "little bad guy", quietly lay hidden dangers in our mouths? Let's reveal its five "hidden tricks" one by one:

"Disguise": It may disguise itself as a harmless mouth ulcer, making you mistakenly think it is just an ordinary minor oral problem.

"Color-changing technique": It can change the color of the oral mucosa from normal pink to white or red, just like a magician's color-changing technique.

"Lump surgery": It will quietly build "illegal buildings" in your mouth, that is, abnormal lumps or growths.

"Painless surgery": It is often painless in the early stages, making it difficult for you to detect, and by the time you discover it, it may be too late.

"Metastasis": It will also quietly metastasize to the cervical lymph nodes, expanding its "sphere of influence".

To catch the traces of oral cancer, we need to become the Sherlock Holmes of oral health. Here are the "clues" left by oral cancer:

"Non-healing ulcers": If your mouth ulcers have not healed for more than two weeks, it may be an "alarm" for oral cancer.

"Leukoplakia and erythema": White spots or erythema on the oral mucosa may be the "signal light" of oral cancer.

"Lumps and bulges": A lump that suddenly appears in the mouth may be the "base" of oral cancer.

"Neck lump": Touch your neck. If there is an unexplained lump, it may be a "base" of oral cancer.

"Loose teeth": If loose teeth are not caused by periodontal disease, it may also be a "sign" of oral cancer.

Knowing yourself and your enemy, you can fight a hundred battles without danger. Now that we know the "tactics" of oral cancer, we must also equip ourselves. The following is a complete guide to "self-defense" against oral cancer:

"Quit smoking and drinking": This is a "heavy weapon" to fight oral cancer. It reduces the stimulation of tobacco and alcohol and leaves oral cancer nowhere to hide.

"Oral Hygiene": Brush your teeth carefully every day, use dental floss to clean between teeth, wash your teeth regularly, and keep your mouth clean. This is our "daily protective clothing."

"Healthy diet": Eat more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and trace elements to enhance immunity, which is our "nutritional shield".

"Regular check-ups": Regular oral examinations are like giving your oral cavity a "health check-up" to prevent oral cancer from taking advantage of the opportunity.

"Avoid UV radiation": Apply sunscreen lipstick when going out to protect your lips from UV damage, which is our "sun protection barrier".

Although oral cancer is cunning, as long as we master its "routines", we can effectively prevent and detect it early. Protecting oral health is protecting our happy life. Let us act together to make oral cancer nowhere to hide!