November: Mouth Cancer Action Month
Every November, the world unites to raise awareness about major health issues — lung cancer, stomach cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, COPD, and mouth cancer.
Among these, mouth cancer is one of the few that can be detected early through a self-check. By simply looking inside your mouth once a month, you could spot early warning signs and save your life.
Early detection gives you the best chance against cancer.
As an ENT & head-neck surgeon, I see this truth every day — patients who come early recover well, while those who delay often face complex treatments. Awareness truly changes outcomes.
What Exactly Is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer (oral cancer) can occur in any part of the mouth — lips, tongue, gums, cheeks and floor or roof of the mouth. It begins when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, forming patches, lumps, or ulcers that don’t heal.
When detected early, treatment success rates can reach 80–90%. Yet, many people ignore small, painless sores, assuming they’ll heal — and lose precious time.
Why Mouth Cancer Happens
Cancer doesn’t begin overnight — it builds silently over years.
The main causes include:
- Tobacco use (cigarettes, beedis, gutkha, pan masala, etc.)
- Excessive alcohol, especially with tobacco
- Betel nut (supari) chewing
- HPV infection
- Poor oral hygiene or chronic irritation from dentures or sharp teeth
- Sun exposure to the lips
The good news? Most of these causes are preventable. Quitting harmful habits and maintaining good oral hygiene can drastically reduce your risk.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Be alert for symptoms lasting more than two weeks:
- A sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal
- White or red patches inside the mouth
- Lumps or thickened areas on the lips, cheeks, or tongue
- Pain or difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking
- Change in voice or persistent sore throat
- Numbness, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss
If in doubt — get it checked out!
A quick visit to an ENT or dental specialist can make all the difference.
The 2-Minute Self-Examination That Could Save Your Life
A quick look once a month could protect you for a lifetime.
The Mouth Cancer Foundation (UK) recommends a simple 2-minute, 7-step self-check — an easy habit everyone can follow:
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Face:
Check for lumps, swelling, or colour changes.
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Neck:
Feel both sides for unusual lumps.
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Lips:
Pull down and lift up to check for sores or patches.
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Gums:
Look for swelling, bleeding, or ulcers.
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Cheeks:
Open wide and inspect for red, white, or dark patches.
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Tongue:
Look at all sides and underneath for lumps or thickened areas.
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Roof & Floor:
Tilt your head back to check the roof of your mouth, then lift your tongue to inspect below.
If you notice anything unusual or persistent, see your doctor immediately. It takes just two minutes — and could save your life.
Prevention Is Always Better Than Cure
Quit the habit before it quits you.
Protect yourself and your loved ones:
✅ Stop using tobacco and betel nut completely.
✅ Reduce alcohol intake.
✅ Maintain good oral hygiene.
✅ Eat a balanced, fruit- and vegetable-rich diet.
✅ Use SPF lip balm to protect against sunlight.
✅ Consider HPV vaccination if advised by your doctor.
Small, consistent lifestyle choices can dramatically lower your cancer risk.
Professional Screening: Quick, Simple, Life-Saving
Even without symptoms, get your mouth checked once a year by your ENT specialist or dentist. A screening takes only a few minutes and is completely painless.
A five-minute check today can prevent a lifetime of regret.
A Message of Hope and Action
Mouth cancer is one of the most preventable and curable cancers — but only if caught early. With Mouth Cancer Action Month just past, let’s all:
- Look inside our mouths regularly.
- Listen to our bodies.
- Encourage others to do the same.
Awareness and early action can save thousands of lives every year.
Look inside your mouth — your best chance against cancer.
Dr. Kingston S.
Consultant ENT & Head-Neck Surgeon,
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
