Informative Essay On Oral Cancer

Cancer is defined as the uncontrollable growth of cells that invade and cause damage to surrounding tissue. Oral cancer appears as a growth or sore in the mouth that doesn’t go away. Oral cancer which includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx, can be life threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. In most cases of mouth cancer, it is linked to tobacco and alcohol use. Cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking are the main forms of tobacco use in many parts of the world. Alcohol increases the risk of mouth cancer, and if tobacco and alcohol are taken together the risk is greater. According to the American Cancer Society, men face twice the risk of developing oral cancer as women, and men who are over age 50 face the greatest risk. It’s estimated that over 40,000 people in the U.S. received a diagnosis of oral cancer in 2014. It is important to note that over 25% of all oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke

With surgery to remove the cancerous growth, followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Although Oral cancer can be hereditary there are some preventive steps. Don’t smoke or use any tobacco products. If you choose to drink alcohol drink in moderation. Eat a well balanced diet. Limit your exposure to the sun. Repeated exposure increases the risk of cancer on the lip. Conduct a self exam at least once a month. Using a bright light and a mirror, look and feel your lips and front of your gums. Pull your cheeks out to view the inside of your mouth, the lining of your cheeks, and the back gums. Feel for lumps or enlarged lymph nodes in both sides of your neck and under your lower jaw. Last but not least see your dentist on a regular schedule. The American Cancer Society recommends oral cancer screening exams every 3 years for persons over age 20 and annually for those over age