Source: INCA and WHO
Mouth cancer, also known as cancer of the lip and oral cavity, is a malignant tumor that affects the lips and structures of the mouth, such as the gums, cheeks, roof of the mouth, tongue and the region under the tongue. Data from the Ministry of Health reveal that the disease is more present among men and that 75% of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage and in individuals over the age of 50 years.
The diagnosis of cancer of the oral cavity can usually be made with clinical examination, but confirmation depends on the biopsy. Some imaging tests, such as computed tomography, also help in the diagnosis and, mainly, help to assess the extent of the tumor.
Prevention
The main ways to prevent the disease are: avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages, have a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintain good oral hygiene and use condoms during the practice of oral sex. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that prevention can help reduce the incidence of cancer by up to 25% by 2025.
The periodic visit to the dentist also favors the early diagnosis of oral cancer, since it allows the identification of suspicious lesions.
Symptoms
The main signs to be observed are: lesions in the oral cavity or on the lips that do not heal for more than 15 days; red or whitish spots / plaques on the tongue, gums, roof of the mouth or cheeks; nodules in the neck; and persistent hoarseness.
In more advanced cases, difficulty in chewing and swallowing, difficulty in speech, feeling that there is something stuck in the throat and difficulty in moving the tongue are observed.
Treatment
If diagnosed early and treated appropriately, most cases of this type of cancer (80%) are curable. The Head and Neck surgeon is the professional responsible for assessing the stage of the disease. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are indicated when surgery is not possible or when the procedure would bring functional sequelae to the patient's life.
Surgery usually consists of removing the area affected by the tumor, associated with the removal of lymph nodes from the neck, and some type of reconstruction when necessary. In the simplest lesions, cancer removal surgery resolves. In more complex cases, in addition to the surgical procedure, radiotherapy is necessary to complement the treatment and obtain a better curative result. In all stages of treatment, the participation of several health professionals is important, aiming at the prevention of complications and sequelae.