Oral cancers, also known as lip and mouth cancers, are a group of diseases in which malignant cells are found in the tissues of the lip and mouth. The mouth or oral cavity includes the lips, inside of the mouth, gums, teeth and tongue.

Most oral cancers damage the squamous cells that line the inside of the mouth. The most common symptoms of oral cancers include a sore or pain in the mouth that does not go away or a white or red patch in the mouth or pain in the mouth. A lump or thickened area on the lips, gums or in the mouth also may be a symptom of oral cancer.

Oral cancers are strongly linked to tobacco use, including cigarette and cigar smoking, as well as smokeless (chewing and snuff) tobacco. In addition, individuals who consume high amounts of alcohol are at higher risk of the disease. Frequent or extended exposure to the sun is one of the highest risk factors for lip cancers. Studies have also shown that certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) may be associated with the development of oral and oropharyngeal cancers.

Oral and pharyngeal cancers are the ninth most common cancer among men in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Men, especially over the age of 40 years and blacks have the greatest risk of developing oral cancers.

A physical examination of the lips and mouth may initially detect abnormal and potentially cancerous areas. Samples of tissue from the suspected areas will be collected and examined under a microscope. If the cells are abnormal, a biopsy will be performed to determine the presence and type of cancer. Additional tests may be completed to determine if the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other areas, such as the larynx or lymph nodes.

Treatments for oral cancers include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These treatments may be used alone or in a combination depending on the type, location and stage of the cancer. Oral cancers usually can be cured with early detection and proper treatment. Individuals who have had oral cancers, however, have a high risk of developing a secondary cancer in the surrounding area.

The best way to prevent oral cancers is to reduce or eliminate the major risk factors associated with the disease. Not smoking or drinking excessively greatly reduces the chances of developing oral cancers. In addition, it may prevent the cancers from recurring in the future.