Mouth Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Stages, and Treatment

Stage IV

Spread to multiple lymph nodes, nearby tissues, or distant organs

✅ Survival rates drop sharply after Stage II.

Early-stage (I/II): ~80% 5-year survival

Late-stage (III/IV): ~30–40%

🛠️ How Is Mouth Cancer Diagnosed?

Visual & Physical Exam

Dentist or doctor checks mouth, throat, neck for lumps, sores, or asymmetry.

Biopsy

A small tissue sample is taken and tested — the only way to confirm cancer.

Imaging Tests

CT, MRI, or PET scans to see how far cancer has spread.

HPV Testing

If throat cancer is suspected.

💊 Treatment Options (Depends on Stage)

✅

Surgery

Early to mid-stage

Removes tumor and nearby lymph nodes

✅

Radiation Therapy

Early stage or post-surgery

Kills cancer cells with targeted beams

✅

Chemotherapy

Advanced cases

Often combined with radiation

✅

Targeted Therapy

For specific cancers

Drugs like cetuximab target cancer cells

✅

Immunotherapy

Recurrent or metastatic

Boosts immune system to fight cancer

Rehabilitation may include speech therapy, dental implants, or reconstructive surgery.

🛡️ Prevention & Early Detection

You can reduce your risk — and catch problems early — with these steps: