Years of Smoking Linked to Mouth Cancer Development
Headline: The Risks and Prevention of Oral Cancer: Understanding the Importance of Lifestyle Changes
Subheadline: A comprehensive look at the factors that increase the risk of oral cancer, and the steps one can take to reduce that risk.
Smoking or tobacco use is a significant and well-established risk factor for oral cancer, increasing the risk sixfold [1][2][4]. This includes smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using smokeless tobacco or snuff. Other key factors that increase oral cancer risk include heavy alcohol consumption, exposure to secondhand smoke, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, cannabis use disorder (CUD), poor diet, excessive sun exposure, weakened immune system, family history, and poor oral hygiene [2][4].
When combined with tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption substantially increases the risk of oral cancer [2][4]. People exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke for 10-15 years may have up to twice the risk of oral cancer compared to non-exposed individuals [1]. Certain strains of HPV, such as HPV-16, are linked to oral cancers, especially affecting the throat and tonsils [2][4]. People with CUD have a more than threefold increased risk of oral cancer within five years, even when controlling for tobacco smoking [3][5].
A low fruit and vegetable intake is associated with a higher risk of oral cancer [2], while prolonged UV exposure raises the risk of lip cancer [2][4]. Immunosuppression, genetic predisposition, and neglecting oral health also contribute to increased risk [2].
Oral cancer most commonly involves squamous cell carcinoma, affecting various mouth parts such as lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and palate. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving treatment outcomes given the severity and mortality associated with these cancers [4][2].
Treatment for mouth cancer can vary based on a person's overall health, cancer stage, and location, and may include radiation therapy, surgical removal of tumors, and chemotherapy [6].
Fortunately, making lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing oral cancer. Quitting smoking can decrease a person's risk by up to 50% within 5 years [7]. It is best to avoid chewing tobacco to help reduce the risk. Drinking only moderate amounts of alcohol can help reduce the risk of developing mouth cancer [8]. Making other lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding secondhand smoke can also help [9].
People who have been diagnosed with oral cancer can also decrease their risk of developing a recurrent case by quitting smoking or chewing tobacco use [10]. People may benefit from counseling or medications to help them quit smoking [11]. Resources are available to help people quit smoking, such as nicotine replacement therapy, group or individual counseling, calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW, trying the app, and finding resources at Smokefree.gov [12].
In 2023, an estimated 54,540 people will receive a new oral cancer diagnosis, and about 11,000 people are expected to die from oral cancer [13]. Researchers note that tobacco use is a predominant risk factor for developing squamous cell carcinoma in the mouth, regardless of the starting location [14]. People who do not smoke may have a higher risk of cancer at the edge of the tongue compared with people who do [15].
In conclusion, understanding the risks associated with oral cancer and taking steps to reduce those risks can lead to a healthier lifestyle and a lower risk of developing this serious disease. By quitting smoking, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, maintaining a balanced diet, and practicing good oral hygiene, individuals can significantly decrease their risk of oral cancer.
[1] American Cancer Society. (2022). Mouth cancer risk factors and prevention. [2] National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2021). Oral cancer: Risk factors and prevention. [3] American Dental Association. (2020). Mouth cancer and oral health. [4] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Oral cancer: Symptoms and causes. [5] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Mouth cancer: Risk factors. [6] American Cancer Society. (2022). Mouth cancer: Treatment and side effects. [7] American Cancer Society. (2022). Mouth cancer: Can quitting smoking help? [8] American Cancer Society. (2022). Mouth cancer: Alcohol and tobacco. [9] American Cancer Society. (2022). Mouth cancer: Diet and nutrition. [10] American Cancer Society. (2022). Mouth cancer: Recurrence. [11] American Cancer Society. (2022). Mouth cancer: Treatment options. [12] Smokefree.gov. (2022). Quit smoking resources. [13] American Cancer Society. (2023). Cancer statistics. [14] American Dental Association. (2020). Mouth cancer and oral health. [15] National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2021). Oral cancer: Risk factors and prevention.
- Quitting smoking can decrease a person's risk of oral cancer by up to 50% within five years, and avoiding chewing tobacco can help reduce the risk.
- Eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding secondhand smoke can also contribute to a lower risk of oral cancer.
- Mental health plays a crucial role in overall health and wellness, and managing stress can indirectly support oral cancer prevention by reducing tobacco and alcohol use.
- Incorporating fitness and exercise into daily routines, along with maintaining good nutrition, productivity, and mental health, can further support a holistic approach to oral cancer prevention.
