What You Need to Know to Spot the Signs Early — Because Early Detection Saves Lives
Mouth cancer — also known as oral cancer — doesn’t always make headlines.
But it’s more common than you think.
Every year:
Over 77,000 new cases are diagnosed in India alone
More than 52,000 lives are lost
And globally, hundreds of thousands face this aggressive disease
It typically appears after age 40, affects men more than women, and often develops silently — with no pain at first.
The tragedy?
It’s highly treatable when caught early.
But too often, it’s diagnosed only after spreading to the lymph nodes or other areas.
The good news?
You can protect yourself by knowing the warning signs, understanding your risks, and seeing your dentist regularly.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know — clearly, compassionately, and without fear.
🧠 What Is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer refers to abnormal cell growth in any part of the oral cavity, including:
Lips
Tongue
Inner cheeks
Gums
Roof of the mouth (palate)
Floor of the mouth (under the tongue)
Most oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas — they begin in the thin, flat cells lining the mouth.
When found early, treatment is often successful.
But delayed diagnosis leads to more invasive treatments and lower survival rates.
