The National Cancer Institute (Inca) states that this type of cancer is one of the 10 most common in Brazil.
The oncologist Juliano Ce Coelho (CRM-RS 34.989 and RQE 29.21) explains that when we talk about oral cancer, from an oncological point of view, we need to think about the head and neck region – it includes the tongue, the base of the tongue, the throat and, although rare, the inside of the cheek and gums. He says that the main risk factor is smoking. “We include not only cigarettes, but also pipes, cigars, those types of tobacco where the person does not inhale and leaves the smoke in the oral cavity and then exhales. In addition, alcoholism also plays a major role,” he emphasizes.
According to estimates by the National Cancer Institute (Inca), approximately 15,000 new cases of the disease are expected for each year in the period 2023-2025. Of these numbers, 72% are expected to be men. Famous people such as actors Osmar Prado and Rubens Caribé were affected by the disease. The first had throat cancer (tonsils), but won the battle against cancer. The second did not survive and died in 2022.
According to the doctor, the main symptom is related to the location of the tumor. There is local pain and the individual notices the sore through the mirror or when going to the dentist. He emphasizes that, normally, in cancer of the base of the tongue, the patient can see the lesion. Juliano comments that the person has a bad smell in the mouth, because sometimes it is the tumor cells that end up dying and bring this sign of halitosis. The other point is the spread of the tumor to the lymph nodes (tongues of the neck). It is possible to feel or notice them enlarged in that region.
Dr. Juliano Cé Coelho – DisclosureThe specialist reminds us that the more the disease progresses, the more the symptoms intensify. He states that the worsening of the pain, depending on the location, can lead to trismus, or difficulty opening the mouth due to the involvement of the jaw, and even to paralysis of the vocal cords (change in the timbre of the voice). However, if the disease metastasizes, the most frequent site of spread is usually the lymph nodes and then the lung.
Self-examination
According to the oncologist, self-examination is not discussed much, but involves the patient looking at the oral cavity in front of a mirror, observing further lesions. The doctor also emphasizes that it is important to maintain it consultation up-to-date dental and oral health care, including brushing with fluoride-containing toothpaste and mouthwash.
Prevention
According to the oncologist, prevention consists of reducing exposure to carcinoids (smoking and alcoholism) as much as possible. Juliano also emphasizes that the dentist is essential to help in the diagnosis, because when a person has an annual dental visit, this professional sometimes finds the lesion early and refers the patient to a doctor.
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.