Excessive Alcohol Use: Heavy drinking, especially when combined with tobacco use, multiplies the risk.
HPV Infection: Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are linked to oral can.cers, especially in the back of the throat.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Long-term neglect of oral health can increase vulnerability to infections and can.cer.
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can lead to lip can.cer.
Family History: A genetic predisposition to can.cer may elevate the risk in some individuals.
Dietary Deficiencies: Low intake of fruits and vegetables can reduce the body’s natural defenses against can.cer.
Stages of Oral can.cer
The stage of the can.cer determines both the treatment approach and the likely prognosis:
Stage 1: Tumor is less than 2 cm (about 1 inch) and has not spread to lymph nodes.
Stage 2: Tumor measures 2–4 cm but still hasn’t reached the lymph nodes.
Stage 3: Tumor is larger than 4 cm or has spread to one nearby lymph node.
