- Oral cancer, prominent in women, is a severe health concern linked to hormonal changes, tobacco use, poor diet, HPV, and stress.
- Missing teeth, contributing to oral cancer, can be effectively replaced with biocompatible titanium dental implants.
- Avoiding tobacco products and excessive alcohol consumption are effective preventive measures against oral cancer.
- A nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins aids in the prevention of oral cancer.
- Regular dental checkups, early detection of symptoms, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce women’s risk of oral cancer.
Oral cancer is a significant health concern, and its impact on women is a growing problem. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the incidence of oral cancer in women has been increasing in recent years, and women have a higher mortality rate than men. This is a concerning issue, but what are the reasons behind it, and what can women do to reduce their risk of developing oral cancer? Here’s what you need to know about this disease, the reasons women are susceptible to eating, and how you can deal with it.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer, medically known as oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer, is a type of head and neck cancer that develops in any part of the oral cavity – the mouth, the lips, the tongue, the salivary glands, the throat (oropharynx), the tonsils, or the gums.
If not diagnosed and treated early, oral cancer can be life-threatening. Some common symptoms include persistent mouth sores, pain that doesn’t go away, lumps or thick patches in the mouth or throat, difficulty swallowing or chewing, jaw or tongue numbness, swelling that makes wearing dentures uncomfortable, and many others.
Women are also more likely to get this disease. Here are some reasons why:
1. Hormonal Changes
One of the primary reasons women are susceptible to oral cancer is hormonal changes in their bodies. Hormonal imbalances, particularly during pregnancy or menopause, can increase inflammation in the body. Hormonal changes can weaken the immune system, making women more prone to infections and diseases.
2. Tobacco Use
Tobacco use is a leading cause of oral cancer, and women who smoke or chew tobacco are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer than men. Women who smoke or use tobacco are also more likely to develop cancer in their reproductive organs. Smoking can cause inflammation, leading to an increased risk of oral cancer.
3. Poor Diet
A diet that lacks essential vitamins and minerals is also a contributing factor to oral cancer in women. A diet poor in fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants, can increase the risk of oral cancer. A diet high in sugar and processed foods can also contribute to the development of oral cancer.
4. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Infection
HPV is a common sexually transmitted disease affecting both men and women. The HPV virus can cause cancerous cells in the mouth and throat. Women are more susceptible to HPV infections, which increases their risk of developing oral cancer.
5. Stress
Stress is a common problem for many women; chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Women with high-stress levels are more likely to develop oral cancer. The stress hormone cortisol can increase inflammation, leading to increased cancer risk.
Prevention
Thankfully, there are various ways to prevent this disease. Here are three effective ways:
Replace Missing Teeth Immediately
Leaving gaps between the teeth unfilled for a long time can contribute to oral cancer in several ways. Firstly, these gaps create spaces where food particles can get lodged, leading to bacterial buildup, gum disease, and chronic inflammation, potentially increasing the risk of oral cancer. Secondly, missing teeth can alter the mouth’s biomechanics, causing stress on the gums and jawbone, leading to cellular changes and increasing the risk of malignancy.
Lastly, the psychological impact of missing teeth can lead to negative lifestyle habits such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, which are significant risk factors for oral cancer. Thankfully, reliable dental implants can help get rid of this problem. Implants are made from titanium, a biocompatible material integrated with the jawbone, and provide a permanent solution to missing teeth.
Avoid Tobacco Products and Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Tobacco products contain hundreds of chemicals that can cause inflammation in the mouth and throat. Furthermore, alcohol consumption increases the risk of oral cancer, especially when consumed excessively. So it is best to avoid tobacco and alcohol altogether.
Improve Your Diet
Eating a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber is essential for maintaining overall health and reducing the risk of oral cancer. Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of these nutrients. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day to get sufficient amounts of these essential nutrients. Additionally, reduce the risk by choosing lean protein sources like fish and beans instead of red meat.
Finally, drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and flush out toxins from your body. Proper hydration also helps keep your digestive system in check and reduces inflammation which can contribute to oral cancer.
By following these tips, women can reduce their risk of oral cancer and ensure a healthy future. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this disease so that it can be diagnosed in its early stages and treated effectively. Regular dental checkups are also essential for maintaining good oral health and catching any suspicious changes as soon as possible. With regular preventive care and a healthy lifestyle, women can stay safe from oral cancer.
