If you want to protect your overall health, awareness of oral cancer is essential! Many people believe that only smokers face a significant risk, but the reality is that oral cancer can affect anyone. Knowing what to watch for, how you may prevent it, and what treatment options exist will place you in a stronger position to take control of your well-being. The information in this blog post discusses the stages of oral cancer, prevention techniques, and treatment options for this serious disease.
Stages of Oral Cancer
As oral cancer develops, it progresses through distinct stages:
- Stage 1: Tumors measure less than 2 centimeters and have not spread to the lymph nodes.
- Stage 2: Tumors measure between 2 and 4 centimeters and have not affected nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage 3: Tumors measure more than 4 centimeters and remain unspread, or tumors of any size have reached at least one lymph node.
- Stage 4: Cancer cells have spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body, regardless of tumor size.
Ways to Prevent Oral Cancer
Some risk factors for oral cancer, such as age or biological sex, remain outside your control. However, you can lower your chances of getting this disease by focusing on modifiable risk factors. Some sensible steps you can take include:
- Avoid tobacco products in all forms.
- Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Speak with your doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine.
- Do not overindulge in alcohol.
By making thoughtful choices, you may significantly reduce your chances of developing oral cancer.
Treatment Options and Survival Rates
If you receive an oral cancer diagnosis, your medical team will tailor a treatment plan to fit your needs. The best treatment depends on the stage and spread of the disease.
- If the cancer remains localized, a surgical procedure to remove abnormal tissue may suffice.
- If the cancer has spread, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be necessary.
The five-year survival rate stands at 83% for cases where cancer has not reached the lymph nodes or other body parts. If cancer spreads to distant areas of the body, though, the survival rate drops to 38 percent. Without a doubt, early detection and treatment are critical!
That is why regular oral cancer screenings with a dentist are so important. Our team can identify abnormal tissues and help you arrange for official testing before the disease gets to the point where it would be extremely challenging to manage.
Oral cancer can pose a thread to anyone. Learning about this disease can allow you to avoid becoming a victim.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Makadia has decades of experience in dentistry. He and our team use a combination of skill and technology to provide top-quality service. For example, we use the advanced VELscope device to identify abnormal tissue growths in the mouth that might be cancerous. We also include an oral cancer screening as part of every routine exam. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact our Bohemia, Long Island, office at 631-567-5566.