Better experience in portrait mode.

9 Causes of Mouth Cancer and Its Symptoms, Don't Ignore

kapanlagi
9 Causes of Mouth Cancer and Its Symptoms, Don't Ignore Causes of oral cancer (credit: freepik.com)

Kapanlagi.com - Oral cancer is a health problem that affects the oral cavity with various symptoms. The cancer can develop in the lips, gums, tongue, or the area beneath the tongue. Although the exact cause of oral cancer is unknown, several risk factors for this chronic disease can be experienced due to medical conditions or certain habits.

Similar to other types of cancer, oral cancer occurs due to the growth of abnormal or uncontrolled cells. It affects the oral cavity area. Oral cancer can cause cell damage. The initial symptoms of oral cancer are similar to canker sores, but they have differences.

White or sometimes red spots in the oral cavity may be a common sign of squamous cell carcinoma. It affects the oral cavity and causes several symptoms such as persistent canker sores, red or white spots, and even tooth pain.

However, there are several possible causes of oral cancer that need to be understood as early as possible. As for the causes of oral cancer, you can find out through the following review. Some unconscious lifestyles can increase the risk of oral cancer.

The following are the causes of oral cancer summarized by kapanlagi.com from various sources.

1. Genetic Factors

It is undeniable that genetic factors play a role in certain health issues, including oral cancer. According to cancercenter.com, some genetic mutations are inherited from families that are at risk of triggering oral cancer. Moreover, having a family history of cancer may increase the risk. For example, genetic factors such as a history of Fanconi anemia, which occurs due to inherited disorders, can contribute to oral cancer.

The same goes for the health condition called dyskeratosis congenita, which causes aplastic anemia and increases the risk of oral cancer. However, some sources also mention that hereditary factors may not be the main cause of oral cancer.

2. Smoking Habits

The next cause of oral cancer can be experienced due to smoking habits. Smoking activities are often associated with various dental and oral health problems because the content of substances in tobacco can potentially trigger disease risks. One of them is at risk for oral cancer.

According to cancercenter.com, smoking habits, including using tobacco in various types, can play a big role in oral cancer. About 80 percent of patients with oral cancer are caused by cigarettes or the use of any type of tobacco. This can occur in the oral cavity area, including the cheeks, gums, or lips. The risk is multiple times more likely compared to non-smokers.

3. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

The next cause of oral cancer can be triggered by excessive alcohol consumption. Similarly to the effects of smoking when done over a long period of time, alcohol has similar effects. Moreover, the risk will be higher if combined with smoking habits and excessive alcohol consumption.

According to cancercenter.com, the risk of oral cancer can be more than 100 percent higher compared to non-smokers or alcohol consumers. To prevent it, quitting smoking or limiting alcohol consumption can be done as early as possible.

4. Viral Infections

The cause of oral cancer can also be caused by viral infections. One of these viral infections is human papillomavirus (HPV), which is more easily transmitted through direct contact. HPV infection is also associated with the risk of oral cancer. However, most HPV infections often do not cause symptoms and rarely pose a dangerous risk, including developing into cancer. However, being cautious about HPV infections needs to be done to prevent further risks.

5. Weak Immune System

As it is known, the immune system plays a role in the body's ability to fight against diseases or exposure to free radicals, both viruses and bacteria. If the immune system is weak, it is possible to trigger the emergence of diseases, including oral cancer. According to cancercenter.com, a weak or low immune system is associated with the risk of oral cancer. This can be caused by several specific factors, including the side effects of drugs that trigger immune system disorders or a history of disease.

6. Experiencing Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is an inflammation that occurs on the skin, nails, or mucous membranes. This inflammation can affect the immune system, which is vulnerable to various infections and diseases. According to cancercenter.com, lichen planus is also associated with the risk of oral cancer. Some symptoms that may arise include itchy rashes, white spots in the mouth or throat. This condition can trigger the risk of oral cancer. However, further examination is needed to determine the exact cause of oral cancer.

7. Exposure to Sunlight

Excessive exposure to sunlight can trigger various health problems. It is also a risk factor for oral cancer. The cause of oral cancer can be triggered by excessive exposure to sunlight, especially ultraviolet rays. Especially if the exposure to sunlight occurs on the lips, it increases the risk of oral cancer. Even people who tend to engage in outdoor activities with excessive exposure to sunlight are more likely to develop oral cancer.

8. Lack of Oral Hygiene

The cause of oral cancer can also be triggered by a habit of not maintaining oral hygiene. Oral hygiene needs to be given more attention to prevent oral and dental problems such as canker sores, cavities, or plaque buildup. In this case, the lack of oral and dental hygiene also poses a risk of developing oral cancer.

9. Lack of Nutrition

Lack of nutritional intake also has the potential to trigger oral cancer. These nutrients can be obtained from various types of vegetables and fruits that are rich in vitamins and healthy nutrients. In relation to the causes of oral cancer, a lack of consumption of fruits and vegetables can also pose a risk of developing oral cancer. Some types of fruits and vegetables that can help maintain oral and dental health include apples, oranges, kiwis, celery, and other green vegetables.

10. Symptoms of Oral Cancer

The symptoms of oral cancer can be detected as early as possible to prevent further risk levels. The symptoms of oral cancer that can be recognized are as follows:

- Persistent canker sores.

- White or red patches in the mouth.

- Persistent lumps on the walls inside the oral cavity.

- Difficulty swallowing or chewing.

- Sore throat.

- Tooth pain, such as loose or missing teeth without cause.

Those are the 9 causes of oral cancer and their symptoms that need to be recognized. However, further consultation and examination are needed to determine the exact cause of oral cancer.

(kpl/nlw)

Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.
Swipe Up Next Article

Cobain For You Page (FYP) Yang kamu suka ada di sini,
lihat isinya

Buka FYP