About Tongue Cancer

What is Tongue Cancer?

Tongue cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cells of the tongue. It can occur in any part of the tongue, including the front, sides, and back. Symptoms of tongue cancer may include a sore or lump on the tongue that does not go away, pain or numbness in the tongue, difficulty swallowing, and a change in the way the tongue looks or feels. Treatment for tongue cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

What are the symptoms of Tongue Cancer?

Common symptoms of tongue cancer include:

-A sore or Irritation that doesn't go away
-A lump or thickening on the tongue
-Pain or Numbness in the tongue
-Difficulty chewing or swallowing
-Swelling of the jaw
-A red or white patch on the tongue
-A sore throat that doesn't go away
-A feeling that something is caught in the throat
-Unexplained weight loss
-Bad breath
-Hoarseness or changes in the voice

What are the causes of Tongue Cancer?

1. Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and using smokeless tobacco (such as snuff or chewing tobacco) are the most common causes of tongue cancer.

2. Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking large amounts of alcohol increases the risk of tongue cancer.

3. Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause certain types of cancer, including tongue cancer.

4. Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of tongue cancer.

5. Age: The risk of tongue cancer increases with age.

6. Gender: Men are more likely to develop tongue cancer than women.

7. Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can increase the risk of tongue cancer.

8. Diet

What are the treatments for Tongue Cancer?

Treatment for tongue cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or immunotherapy. Surgery may involve removing part or all of the tongue, and reconstructive surgery may be necessary to restore the tongue's function. Radiation therapy may be used to shrink the tumor before or after surgery. Chemotherapy may be used to kill cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy may be used to help the body's immune system fight the cancer.

What are the risk factors for Tongue Cancer?

1. Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and using smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco, snuff, dip, etc.) are the most common risk factors for tongue cancer.

2. Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking increases the risk of tongue cancer.

3. Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a virus that can cause certain types of cancer, including tongue cancer.

4. Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of tongue cancer.

5. Age: The risk of tongue cancer increases with age.

6. Gender: Men are more likely to develop tongue cancer than women.

7. Diet: Eating a diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of tongue cancer.

Is there a cure/medications for Tongue Cancer?

Yes, there are treatments available for tongue cancer. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. Your doctor will be able to discuss the best treatment options for you.