Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Still, there are many myths about it. Let us bust them this Oral Cancer Awareness Month.
Oral cancer is a common type of cancer that develops when abnormal cells within the lining of different parts of the mouth grow uncontrollably. The gums, tongue, floor of the mouth, or lips get affected. If you have oral cancer, you may experience throat pain or a sore in the mouth that does not heal. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to debunk some myths about oral cancer.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is a disease affecting various parts of the mouth and throat. This malignancy can manifest in areas such as the lips, tongue, gums, oropharynx, and larynx, says oncologist Dr. Ashish Gupta. According to the World Health Organization, oral cancer is the thirteenth most common type of cancer in the world and took the lives of 177,757 people in 2020.
![Close-up of a woman opening her mouth to check oral cancer Close-up of a woman opening her mouth to check oral cancer](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2024/04/09174213/Oral-cancer1-370x207.jpg)
What are the common myths and facts around oral cancer?
It is important to dispel common myths surrounding oral cancer and have accurate information about it. Here are some common myths:
1. Myth: Only smokers get oral cancer.
Fact: It is true that smoking increases the risk, but non-smokers can also end up with oral cancer, says the expert. Alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and sun exposure are all potential contributing factors.
2. Myth: Only elderly people get affected by oral cancer.
Fact: While age is a risk factor, younger people can also develop oral cancer, especially due to HPV infection and risk factors like smoking and chewing tobacco. According to a 2022 study published in the Iranian Journal of Public Health, the chance of developing oral cancer among HPV positive patients was found to be higher than that in HPV negative patients.
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3. Myth: Oral cancer is rare.
Fact: Oral cancer is pretty common worldwide. In fact, India has the largest number of cases related to oral cancer, and one-third of the total burden of the disease globally, as per a 2020 research published in Sensors International.