Oral cancer—including cancers of the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, floor/roof of the mouth, and throat—often starts silently. But when caught early, survival rates exceed 80%. The key? Knowing the subtle signs that most people dismiss as “just a sore” or “irritation.”
Here are the early warning signs every adult should recognize:
🔴 1. A Sore That Doesn’t Heal
- A mouth ulcer, cut, or red/white patch that doesn’t heal within 2–3 weeks is the #1 red flag.
- Unlike canker sores (which heal in 7–10 days), oral cancer lesions persist and may bleed easily.
🟠 2. Red or White Patches (Leukoplakia/Erythroplakia)
- White patches (leukoplakia) or red velvety patches (erythroplakia) on gums, tongue, or inner cheeks.
- Erythroplakia is more likely to be precancerous—don’t ignore it.
🟡 3. Unexplained Numbness or Pain
