Indian Men Are at Higher Risk of Oral Cancer: Identify It with These 6 Symptoms
Oral cancer cases are rising rapidly in India, especially among men. The biggest reason is excessive use of tobacco, gutkha, khaini, beedi, alcohol, and poor oral hygiene. According to health experts, Indian men are nearly 4–5 times more prone to oral cancer compared to women. The good news is that early detection can save lives. If you notice these symptoms, don’t ignore them:
1. Persistent Mouth Ulcers
If you have a sore or ulcer inside the mouth that does not heal within 2–3 weeks, it may be an early warning sign. Unlike normal mouth ulcers, cancer-related sores are painless but persistent.
2. White or Red Patches
Unexplained white (leukoplakia) or red (erythroplakia) patches inside the mouth, gums, or tongue can indicate abnormal cell growth that may turn cancerous.
3. Difficulty in Chewing or Swallowing
If chewing food, moving the tongue, or swallowing becomes painful or difficult without any known reason, it could be due to cancerous growth in the oral cavity.
4. Lump or Thickening in the Mouth
A sudden lump, swelling, or thickened area inside the cheeks, gums, or lips that doesn’t go away is a red flag for oral cancer.
5. Persistent Bad Breath or Bleeding
Continuous foul breath, unexplained bleeding from gums or mouth, or loosening of teeth may also be linked to oral cancer.
6. Numbness or Change in Voice
Unexplained numbness in the tongue, lips, or throat, along with changes in voice or persistent sore throat, should not be ignored.
