Fact 4: Risk Factors and Causes
When discussing oral cancer, identifying the risks and underlying causes becomes a priority. At the top of the list? Tobacco. It’s no secret that tobacco, whether smoked, chewed, or snuffed, is a principal villain. And while many associate lung cancer with smoking, it’s pivotal to remember that the mouth is the first contact point. It’s where the carcinogens from tobacco directly interact with the oral tissues.
Alcohol is another accomplice. Not just a solitary culprit, but especially when used in tandem with tobacco, it amplifies the risk exponentially. The reasoning here is fairly straightforward: alcohol tends to break down the soft tissues of the mouth, making it more permeable to the carcinogens found in tobacco.
Diet, often overlooked, plays its part too. A diet lacking fruits and vegetables deprives the body of essential antioxidants and vitamins, weakening its defense mechanisms. On the flip side, a diet rich in these can potentially offer a protective shield against such malignancies.
Exposure to certain chemicals, especially in workplaces that involve asbestos, formaldehyde, and certain types of synthetic fibers, can also elevate risks. It’s not just about what we consume, but also what we’re exposed to on a day-to-day basis.
While genetics might predispose some to oral cancer, lifestyle choices and environmental exposures significantly tilt the scales. Recognizing these risk factors, and more importantly, taking actionable steps to mitigate them, can profoundly impact one’s oral health trajectory. (4)
