Why Are Non Smokers Getting Mouth Cancer: For many years, oral cancer was considered a disease that mostly occurs in elderly men. Especially among those people who have been smoking cigarettes or tobacco for a long time. But now Indian doctors are noticing a very worrying change. Young people in their 20s and 30s, many of whom have never smoked, are reaching hospitals with advanced stage oral cancer.

Are non-cigarette smokers also becoming victims?

Some of them are very conscious about fitness, some have never even touched a cigarette. Many people are starting their career or are living a new married life. Despite this, the number of such cases coming to the doctors is continuously increasing. India is already among the countries with the highest number of oral cancer cases in the world. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, oral cancer remains one of the most common cancers due to the widespread use of tobacco and betel nut based products in the country. However, now doctors say that the danger is not limited to smoking only, but its form has changed.

misunderstanding among people regarding this

Dr Akshat Malik, senior consultant and head and neck oncology expert at Apollo Hospitals, told TOI that the biggest misconception among the youth is that only cigarette smoking causes oral cancer. According to him, “Earlier, oral cancer was considered a disease of elderly men who have been smoking for a long time. But now cases are increasing rapidly in people below 40 years of age, in which a large number are non-smokers also.”

Which things are dangerous to consume?

Doctors say that today many youth consume products like gutkha, khaini, pan masala, betel nut and paan instead of cigarettes. These things are considered normal socially and culturally, so people do not consider them harmful. But according to medical experts, these habits can prove to be very dangerous. Dr Malik explains that most oral cancer patients do not smoke cigarettes, but use other forms of tobacco, such as gutkha, khaini, pan masala, betel nut or paan.”

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How can there be harm?

These substances remain in contact with the gums and inner parts of the cheeks for a long time, causing continuous damage to the cells. The biggest problem is that many people do not consider themselves tobacco users, so they are not even aware of their risks. Apart from this, small problems occurring continuously inside the mouth can also become a big threat. Such as a broken tooth that repeatedly injures the tongue, ill-fitting dentures, long-term infections or poor oral hygiene. People often ignore these things, but persistent swelling and wounds can gradually lead to cancer.

Danger spreading rapidly among youth?

The most worrying thing is that oral cancer occurring in youth can spread more rapidly. According to Dr. Malik, “We believe that oral cancer occurring in young people is more aggressive and can spread rapidly.” Doctors say that the biggest danger in this disease is late detection. Initial symptoms often seem minor, such as a persistent sore in the mouth, white or red spots, burning sensation when eating, difficulty swallowing, or a lump in the neck. People consider them normal and ignore them.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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