Early Signs of Oral Cancer: Oral cancer can develop without any apparent reason, making it even more dangerous. A large number of people are affected by this disease every year.

Can you get oral cancer without tobacco and alcohol?

Can Non-Smokers Get Oral Cancer? Are you completely safe if you don't smoke tobacco or drink alcohol? Most people believe this, but the truth is a little different. Oral cancer is not limited to those who consume tobacco or alcohol. In many cases, this disease can develop without any apparent reason, which makes it even more dangerous. A large number of people fall victim to this disease every year, but the initial symptoms are so mild that they are often ignored. This is why most cases are detected when the disease has already progressed and treatment becomes difficult.

How are they

Oral cancer actually begins with changes in the cells of the mouth, which gradually begin to grow uncontrollably. Tobacco and alcohol are certainly the biggest causes, but this is not the whole story. According to a report by UThealth Houston, experts now believe that many other factors may be responsible for this. According to Dr. Simon Young, Professor and Acting Chair, Katz Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, one of the major causes is HPV infection, which plays a role especially in throat cancers. Apart from this, long-term inflammation, sun exposure, aging and the body's own sensitivity can also increase the risk. This is why some people develop this disease even without any apparent reason.

What is its biggest problem?

The biggest problem is that mouth cancer isn't painful initially. This is why people don't take it seriously. If a sore in the mouth persists for a long time, red or white spots appear, or there is difficulty swallowing or speaking, these could be signs that shouldn't be ignored. According to experts, if any symptoms persist for more than two weeks, an examination should be done immediately. Early detection is the best way to prevent this disease, as treatment is more effective in the early stages.

What came out in the research

According to a report from UTHealth Houston, research has also shown that regular checkups and awareness can significantly reduce the risk of this disease. This is why doctors now not only advise avoiding tobacco and alcohol, but also consider regular oral checkups equally important.