A STUDY ON IMPACT OF AWARENESS REGARDING ORAL CANCER AMONG THE ADDICTED PEOPLE

Mouth cancer has the same meaning as oral cancer - it is cancer that occurs in any part of the mouth; on the tongue's surface, in the lips, inside the cheek, in the gums, in the roof and floor of the mouth, in the tonsils, and also the salivary glands. Mouth cancer is an important global healthcare problem. There are more than 3000 cases of mouth cancer reported on in India every year. These cancers are more common in men than in Women. However this is changing the incidence rate of cancer of the mouth in women has significantly at a rate of 3% per year since 1994. It mainly affects older people although younger people are being diagnosed now. Early detection of mouth cancer greatly improves the chances of survival. The effect of cancer on speech and swallowing depend on the location and size of the growth. E.g. a sore or lumb on the lips may limit movement. It may also limit the ability to move food around the mouth or push food back towards the throat during swallowing. The outcomes after surgery depend on the location and size of the cancerous growth. Other important factor includes the amount of tissues removed in surgery, the frequency of speech and swallowing treatment and the motivation of the patient.