Oral cancer is rapidly "getting younger" — doctor named the main causes

In recent years, specialists have been recording an alarming trend: oral and pharyngeal cancer is increasingly being detected in younger patients. While this disease was previously diagnosed predominantly in people over 60, it is now increasingly being found in patients aged 40–50.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to foreign media, according to Russian oncologist Evgeny Cheremushkin, one of the main causes of the disease is the use of regular and electronic cigarettes.

According to him, tobacco smoke and harmful substances contained in vapes damage the oral mucosa, significantly increasing the risk of developing cancer.

The doctor noted that chronic inflammatory processes can also cause the disease. Teachers, singers, and workers in hazardous industries are in a particular risk group, as their mucous membranes are subjected to prolonged irritation.

The specialist emphasized that viral infections are also among the significant risk factors.

According to the doctor, the initial symptoms of the disease are often mistaken for ordinary inflammation. Among the main signs are mouth pain, a burning sensation, non-healing ulcers, discomfort when swallowing, and visible changes in the mucous membrane.

Cheremushkin stated that if any changes in the oral cavity do not resolve over an extended period of time, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately.

According to him, treatment primarily involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and in some cases, surgical intervention. The complex anatomical structure of the oral cavity and pharynx significantly complicates the treatment process.

The doctor added that in people who have used tobacco and alcohol for a long time, the course of the disease is significantly more severe. That is why early diagnosis is of crucial importance.