Journal of Odontology
Open Access

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious and deadly disease that affects millions of people. In fact, the Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that someone in the United States dies every hour from oral cancer, but it is often curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages. It is most often seen in people over the age of 40. The biggest risk factors are tobacco and alcohol use, including chewing tobacco. HPV, a sexually transmitted wart virus, also increases the risk. The symptoms of mouth or throat cancer include sores, lumps, or rough areas in the mouth. You may also have a change in your bite and difficulty chewing or moving your tongue or jaw.