17/11/2025
Know the Signs of Oral Cavity Cancer
The mouth is often one of the first places where serious health conditions appear. Oral cavity cancer may begin quietly, with subtle changes that seem harmless but represent early disease. Recognising these signs early is critical, because early-stage cancers have far better outcomes than advanced disease.
Key Symptoms to Look For
• Ulcers or sores that do not heal within 2–3 weeks
• White patches (leukoplakia) or red patches (erythroplakia)
• Areas of thickening, firmness, or lumps in the mouth or neck
• Unexplained bleeding, persistent pain, or tenderness
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue or jaw
• Numbness, tingling, or altered sensation
• Loose teeth without a dental cause
• Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or changes in speech
These abnormalities may represent early dysplasia (precancerous change) or early cancer and should always be assessed if they persist.
Why Early Detection Matters
Oral cavity cancer outcomes vary greatly depending on the stage at diagnosis:
• Overall 5-year survival (all stages combined): approximately 68%
• Early-stage (localised, Stage I–II): 5-year survival can reach 80–90% in many modern series
• Advanced disease (Stage III–IV): survival drops significantly, often to 30–40%, and may be lower when lymph nodes or distant sites are involved
Early diagnosis offers the best chance for cure.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
• Men over 40
• People who smoke or use to***co products
• Regular alcohol consumption, especially when combined with to***co
• High lifetime sun exposure (particularly for lip cancer)
• Chronic mechanical irritation (poorly fitting dentures, sharp teeth)
While these increase risk, anyone can be affected.
Awareness Saves Lives
Most oral cavity cancers are preventable or curable when detected early. A monthly self-examination of your mouth and routine dental check-ups can help identify problems at a curable stage.
If you notice persistent patches, ulcers, lumps, or any of the symptoms listed above, consult your dentist, oral health professional, or a head and neck specialist promptly.
