Understanding and coping with tongue cancer
From Prevention to Treatment, a Comprehensive Guide
What Is Tongue Cancer?
Tongue cancer begins when healthy cells in the tongue undergo mutations in their DNA, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of a tumor. It is not always clear what causes these mutations, but the human papillomavirus (HPV) may be involved in some cases, particularly for tumors that develop in the throat.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Key risk factors include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to specific types of HPV. Men, individuals over 45 years old, and those who do not maintain proper oral hygiene are at higher risk. To reduce the risk of developing tongue cancer, it is advisable to avoid tobacco, limit alcohol consumption, consider HPV vaccination, and undergo regular dental and medical check-ups.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of tongue cancer may involve X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, and biopsies. Treatment varies based on severity and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Surgery is often used to remove the primary tumor, and in more severe cases, removal of affected lymph nodes may be necessary. Radiation therapy, often combined with chemotherapy, is employed to destroy remaining tumor cells or reduce tumors. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy are options for cases where cancer has spread or is recurrent.
Complications and Prognosis
Complications of tongue cancer can arise following the received treatments. These include speech difficulties, swallowing problems, taste alterations, emotional issues, and, in some cases, dehydration or malnutrition. Radiation therapy can cause additional side effects such as skin irritation, fatigue, nausea, and bone pain.
As for prognosis, the five-year relative survival rate varies significantly depending on the cancer stage. For tongue tumors that have not spread beyond the tongue, the five-year survival rate is estimated to be around 85%. If cancer has spread only to the lymph nodes, the rate drops to 70%. In more severe cases where cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the five-year relative survival rate is significantly lower, around 41%. It is important to remember that these data are relative and can vary based on various factors, such as the patient’s overall health, the type of treatments received, and other individual aspects.
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