Oral Cancer: Myths and Facts
Most people have a misconception that oral health means only avoiding cavities or banishing bad breath. But most people forget about oral cancers. There is relatively low awareness about oral cancer and how to prevent it.
In India, oral cancer ranks in the top 3 cancer-causing maximum deaths. Over 5 people in India die every hour every day because of oral cancer.
Some myths and facts of oral cancer:
1. Men have double the risk of oral cancers as compared to women
Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers are twice as common in men than in women. This might be because men have been more likely to use tobacco and alcohol in the past.
2. Only smokers and heavy drinkers can have oral cancer
Smoking and excessive drinking can significantly increase your risk of oral cancer. But there are other risk factors also present that can put you at risk of oral cancer, such as age, gender, family history, radiation exposure etc.
3. Prolong sun exposure can be a risk factor for oral cancer
Sun exposure, not wearing sunscreen, or going to a tanning salon increases your chances of developing lip cancer. But it can be prevented by wearing a lip balm with SPF to help protect your lips from excessive sun exposure.
4. Once the person recovered from oral cancer, he/she can not have cancer again in future
Once the person had oral cancer, he is automatically at greater risk for developing another. Therefore, a check-up after every six months is necessary, unless pre-cancerous changes are noticed.
5. Only older people can get oral cancer.
Usually, oral cancer is observed in older people, so it’s unusual to see oral cancers in someone younger than age 40. But it’s not impossible. That’s why it’s important to visit a doctor if any odd observed.
To know oral cancer symptoms visit: Oral Cancer Symptoms
If you have any doubt regarding risk factors or treatment of oral cancer you can visit Prolife Cancer Centre or Call to Dr. Sumit Shah, most reliable cancer specialist in Pune for oral cancer treatment for the last 10 years.
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