Use of Tobacco- an invitation to Oral Cancer!

What is oral cancer?

Oral Cancer is a disease that starts as an uncontrolled growth of cells in the mouth. It leads to disfigurement of the face, debility of body and eventually Death.

Oral Cancer is the most common of cancers in India with as many as 64,460 cases reported every year.That makes it as common as cancer of lungs,breast or cervix.the figure continues to rise rapidly because of bad oral habits such as Tobacco chewing, smoking,etc..

What causes oral cancer?

The main culprit is Tobacco whether in smoked form ( cigarettes,bidis,hooka,cigar,chillum)or in smokeless form ( Gutka,Paan with tobacco,tobacco toothpaste,Zarda,Kiwam,Manipuri tobacco,Gudhaku). Tobacco chewing is the biggest cause of cancer and has made cancer of Head and Neck the number one cancer in India.

India is the second largest producer of tobacco in the world and a large part of the production is consumed within the country.Tobacco worth Rs.24,000 crore is sold annually and the government has to spend Rs.27,000 crore annually on free health services to couter balance the harm it causes.

1 out of 10 indians adults dies of tobacco related diseases.

90% oral cancer are caused by Tobacco products.

The morbidity and mortality caused by tobacco exceeds its contribution to the revenue of the country.Tobacco is not only causing health hazards but also socio-cultural,economic,environmental and professional hazards. Tobacco is no more a personal affair but an epidemic that affects not only the addict but also the people and environment around
him.
WHAT ARE THE EARLY WARNING SIGNS?

• A white or red patch in the mouth or on the tongue.
• A painless ulcer which doesn't heal for over two weeks.
• Difficulty in eating,drinking and speaking.

If any of the above signs or symptoms appear, you must see your dentist immediately.

CAN I EXAMINE MYSELF?

YES,you can. In fact, it is strongly recommended because early detection can greatly increase the chances of a complete cure.

• Stand in front of a mirror in good light.
• Open your mouth wide. Look for small lumps or swelling, ulcers, a red or white patch.
• If you have dentures, take them out and inspect your mouth.
• Inspect the lips with your mouth both open and closed.
• Stick your tongue out and inspect the margins, as well as below the tongue.

If you see something that is unexplained, visit your dentist immediately.

HOW TO AVOID ORAL CANCER?

• Avoid bad oral habits like Tobacco chewing, gutkha and smoking.
• Eat a diet rich in fibre, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and dairy products such as buttermilk.
• Visit your dentist twice a year.
• Brush twice a day and maintain good oral hygiene.