Remember M.O.U.T.H. C.A.N.C.E.R.

ORAL cancer is a significant cause of death, even though it only constitutes 2% of all cancers worldwide.

This is because it only has an average survival rate of 50%.

In Malaysia, many cases of oral cancer are only diagnosed in the advanced stages.

Two-thirds (66.9%) of mouth cancers are only caught when they are already in stages 3 and 4.

Similarly for tongue cancer (60.6%) and lip cancer (46.9%).

Indeed, mouth cancer is ranked within the top 10 cancers in Malaysia.

Here are 11 keys to fighting mouth cancer, using the name itself as a mnemonic:

> Mental strength

Always give adequate psychological support to cancer patients. > Oral care

Caring for your mouth is just as important as caring for your body.

As the saying goes: “Your mouth is the mirror of your health”, so watch out for any changes in your oral cavity as that may be the first sign of cancer.

> Unceasing support from family

Members of the family should not only provide emotional and mental support to the patient, but also practical assistance like financial support for treatment and helping to care for the patient when needed.

> Treatment of pre-cancer and cancer

Patients should attend their treatment sessions at the right intervals as prescribed by the oncologist, in association with dental specialists, without any interruption.

> Hygiene of the mouth

We should all always maintain good hygiene of the mouth by using the appropriate cleansing aids at home.

> Courage to face cancer

Patients should be strong enough to accept the fact of their diagnosis and undergo the treatments prescribed by their doctor. > Awareness regarding risk factors

Everyone should make themselves aware of the risk factors associated with mouth cancer.

> No smoking

Smokers are 10 times more likely to get oral cancer than non-smokers.

Therefore, they should make their best attempt to quit as soon as possible.

Quitting programmes and clinics are available to them for help in this matter (see p5).

> Caution on warning signs

Mouth cancer often presents with warning signs that are ignored due to the lack of awareness about the signs and symptoms of this disease.

So, be aware of the changes that might indicate oral cancer so that you can seek professional help during the early stages of the disease.

These include:

• Wounds that don’t heal

• White patches

• Red patches

• Abnormal lumps or growths that increase in size over time

• Bleeding from long-standing wounds in the mouth.

Patients should educate themselves on the signs of progression or regression of their cancer lesions so that they are aware of their disease status.

> Examination of the mouth

Each one of us should always check our oral cavity (mouth) in the mirror (self-examination) regularly to detect any distinct changes that might indicate disease, including cancer.

This will enable us to seek professional help immediately.

Early diagnosis will lead to better outcomes in oral cancer.

> Regular dental visits

Dental healthcare professionals are trained to diagnose oral cancer.

So do visit your dentist at least once a year to check your mouth and teeth, and obtain advice on how to maintain good oral (mouth) care.

This is especially important as some signs indicative of cancer may go unnoticed by the patient.

Dr Vaishnavi Vedam is a senior lecturer at AIMST University’s Faculty of Dentistry. For more information, email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this article. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.