Tongue cancer is a disease commonly experienced by older people, especially those with a history of heavy smoking and alcohol consumption, along with other factors such as poor dentures and oral hygiene. However, in recent years, cases of tongue cancer in young people have begun to receive attention due to its increasing frequency in the productive age group.
This condition requires vigilance because the early symptoms of tongue cancer are often considered trivial and resemble common canker sores. As a result, many sufferers seek medical attention when the condition has already reached an advanced stage, making treatment more complex. Therefore, recognizing the early signs and risk factors of tongue cancer early is crucial to increase the chances of successful treatment.
What Is Tongue Cancer and Why Does It Attack Young People?
Tongue cancer is a type of oral cancer that occurs due to abnormal cell growth in the tongue tissue. This condition can appear on the easily visible front of the tongue or at the base of the tongue, which is more difficult to detect.
Tongue cancer is currently becoming more common in young, productive-age individuals. Several studies suggest that lifestyle changes and exposure to certain risk factors are suspected to contribute to the increase in cases. In addition to smoking, e-cigarette use, and alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of tongue cancer.
Symptoms of Tongue Cancer
Here are some symptoms of tongue cancer that you need to be aware of:
- White or red patches that don't go away (Leukoplakia/Erythroplakia )
- Lumps or thickening on the tongue.
- Pain when eating, swallowing, or talking.
- The tongue bleeds easily for no apparent reason.
- Persistent bad breath.
- The tongue feels stiff or difficult to move.
If these symptoms persist, consult a doctor immediately so that the cause can be identified early.
Risk Factors for Tongue Cancer in Young People That Often Go Unnoticed
Several factors can increase the risk of tongue cancer at a young age, both related to lifestyle and certain health conditions.
1. Poor oral hygiene (Denture)
Poor oral hygiene can trigger chronic irritation and increase the risk of disorders of the oral tissues, including tongue cancer.
2. Smoking, e-cigarette use, or tobacco chewing
Exposure to chemicals from cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and tobacco chewing can damage cells in the oral cavity and trigger abnormal cell growth.
3. Excessive alcohol consumption
Alcohol can irritate oral tissues and increase the risk of cancer, especially when combined with smoking.
How Is Tongue Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?
To confirm a diagnosis of tongue cancer, the doctor will perform a physical examination and assess the patient's medical history. If any suspicious abnormalities are found, further testing is usually necessary.
Some methods of diagnosing tongue cancer include:
- Biopsy to take tissue samples.
- CT scan to see the spread of cancer.
- MRI to assess tissue conditions in more detail.
- X-ray photo.
Once a diagnosis is made, tongue cancer treatment will be tailored to the stage and condition of the patient. Treatment may include:
- Surgery to remove cancerous tissue.
- Radiotherapy.
- Chemotherapy.
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation therapy to help speech and swallowing function after treatment.
The sooner tongue cancer is detected, the greater the chance of successful therapy and patient recovery.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consult a doctor immediately if you have canker sores or sores on your tongue that don't improve in more than two weeks. An examination is also necessary if you notice lumps, white or red patches, pain when swallowing, or if your tongue bleeds easily.
Symptoms that appear mild but persist should not be ignored. Early detection of tongue cancer is crucial because it can increase the chances of successful treatment and help prevent the disease from spreading to other tissues.
Article written by Dr. Arif Winata, Sp.B (K) Onk (Surgical Oncology Specialist at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).