Oral Cancer: Risk Factors, Diet and causes

Oral cancer is a significant global health concern, posing a substantial threat to public health due to its increasing incidence and often late diagnosis. This review article explores the key aspects of oral cancer, emphasizing its prevalence, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment options. Tobacco and alcohol consumption remain the primary risk factors, while emerging evidence highlights the role of HPV infection, poor oral hygiene, and genetic predisposition. Early symptoms such as persistent mouth sores, unexplained pain, and difficulty swallowing are often overlooked, leading to delayed diagnosis and reduced survival rates. Effective diagnosis relies on clinical examinations, imaging techniques, and biopsies, while advancements in molecular diagnostics offer promising tools for early detection. Treatment options, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies, continue to evolve, improving patient outcomes. Additionally, ongoing research in immunotherapy and personalized medicine is paving the way for innovative treatment strategies. Raising public awareness, encouraging preventive measures, and supporting research initiatives are vital in reducing the global burden of oral cancer. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of oral cancer, highlighting the importance of early detection, improved treatment strategies, and future research directions.