Tongue cancer is a type of oral cancer developing as an abnormal growth of cells on the tongue. It can cause issues with speech, eating, and breathing. Although common in those aged 40 or older, the condition can affect people of ages. However, when confined to the tongue and detected in early stages, tongue cancer is highly treatable. Here, recognizing the signs and causes of the condition can help one get an early diagnosis.

Types
There are two specific types of tongue cancer based on their location:

Oral tongue cancer: This type of cancer develops at the front of the tongue within the mouth.

Hypopharyngeal tongue cancer: This variant emerges at the base of the tongue in the throat.

Oral tongue cancer typically originates as a small, painless bump or ulcer on the tongue surface, gradually evolving and spreading in stages if left unchecked. However, in stage 1 tongue cancer, the tumor size is 2 cm or less and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.

Signs
In its initial stages, tongue cancer may be unnoticeable. However, as it grows, the following signs may be observed:

– A sore on the tongue that tends to bleed easily
– Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
– Husky voice
– Difficulty in chewing, swallowing, and speaking
– An ulcer on the tongue that does not seem to heal
– Tingling or numbness in the tongue or mouth
– Unexplained bleeding from the tongue
– Stiffness in the tongue or jaw

Causes and risk factors
Tumor growth in the tongue is believed to be linked to DNA alterations that cause abnormal growth of cells, forming a tumor. While men are more susceptible to tongue cancer compared to women, the following factors can also increase the risk of developing the condition:

– Exposure to certain types of HPV (human papillomavirus)
– Poor oral hygiene and lack of dental care
– Family history and genetic predisposition
– Unhealthy lifestyle and food choices

Treatment options
The first step in managing cancer is confirming the condition and checking its severity and symptoms. For a proper diagnosis, methods like medical history and physical examination, biopsy, and imaging tests like CT scan, MRI, or PET scan are used. Based on the results of the tests, the following treatment options may be recommended:

Surgery: The affected area of the tongue is surgically removed.

Radiation therapy: Here, energy beams are used to kill cancer cells.

Chemotherapy: Through this approach, prescription treatment targets and kills cancer cells.

Targeted therapy: This targets certain chemicals in cancer cells.

Immunotherapy: This option helps the immune system find and kill tongue cancer cells.

Doctors customize the treatment based on factors such as the cancer stage, location, and the overall health and preferences of the patient. Stage 1 tongue cancer is commonly treated using a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Prevention
One can take the measures to lower the risk of tongue cancer:

– Seeking immunization against HPV infection
– Adding nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to daily meals
– Maintaining oral hygiene by brushing teeth every day and flossing regularly
– Getting regular dental checkups

If one notices any symptoms of tongue cancer, they should consult a doctor as soon as possible to seek an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.