Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that affects the mouth and surrounding tissues, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. It is increasingly common in India due to high rates of tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene. Fortunately, advancements in medical science have made treatment more effective and accessible.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best oral cancer treatment methods, their possible side effects, and the success rates — with a special focus on oral cancer treatment in India.
Understanding Oral Cancer
Oral cancer usually begins in the squamous cells that line the mouth and throat. If detected early, it can be treated successfully with a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Common Symptoms:
- Persistent mouth sores
- A lump or thickening in the cheek
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Numbness in the mouth
Early diagnosis plays a critical role in improving survival rates.
Best Methods for Oral Cancer Treatment
1. Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment, especially in early stages (Stage I and II). It involves removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue. In some cases, lymph nodes from the neck may also be removed if there’s a risk of the cancer spreading.
Types of surgery:
- Tumor resection
- Mandibulectomy (removal of part or all of the jaw)
- Glossectomy (removal of part or all of the tongue)
- Reconstructive surgery
Availability in India: Most major hospitals in India offer advanced surgical options, including robotic surgery, which ensures greater precision and quicker recovery.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It may be used alone or after surgery to kill any remaining cells. For patients who are not fit for surgery, it can serve as a primary treatment.
Techniques include:
- External beam radiation
- Brachytherapy (internal radiation)
India has several centers equipped with advanced radiation technologies such as IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) and IGRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy), which minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. It is typically used in combination with radiation (chemoradiation), especially for advanced-stage cancers.
Common drugs used:
- Cisplatin
- 5-Fluorouracil
- Docetaxel
Indian hospitals offer both standard and customized chemotherapy regimens, often at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
These are newer treatment approaches that focus on specific genes or proteins involved in cancer growth.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs like Cetuximab are used to block the growth of cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Drugs like Nivolumab help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
While more expensive, these options are increasingly available in India’s top cancer hospitals.
Side Effects of Oral Cancer Treatment
While treatment is often life-saving, it can come with side effects. These vary depending on the method used and the patient’s overall health.
Common Side Effects:
- Mouth sores and dry mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Loss of taste
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea from chemotherapy
- Facial disfigurement (in surgical cases)
Supportive care such as speech therapy, dietary support, and reconstructive surgery is essential in managing these side effects, and many Indian hospitals offer integrated care.
Success Rates of Oral Cancer Treatment
Success rates for oral cancer depend largely on the stage at which it is detected.
| Stage | Approximate 5-Year Survival Rate |
| Stage I | 80–90% |
| Stage II | 70–80% |
| Stage III | 50–60% |
| Stage IV | 30–40% |
Key takeaway: Early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates. Regular dental checkups and avoiding risk factors (like tobacco and alcohol) can aid in early detection.
Oral Cancer Treatment in India
India has become a global hub for cancer treatment, offering high-quality care at competitive prices. Patients from across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East travel to India for oral cancer treatment.
Top Hospitals in India:
- Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
- AIIMS, New Delhi
- Adyar Cancer Institute, Chennai
- Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
Estimated Cost Range (in INR):
- Surgery: ₹80,000 – ₹2,50,000
- Radiation Therapy: ₹1,00,000 – ₹3,00,000
- Chemotherapy (per cycle): ₹10,000 – ₹50,000
- Targeted Therapy: ₹75,000 – ₹2,00,000 per dose
Many of these hospitals are accredited by NABH and JCI, ensuring international standards of care.
Bonus: Government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and state-specific health schemes cover cancer treatment for economically weaker sections.
Conclusion
Oral cancer is a treatable disease, especially when diagnosed early. The key lies in awareness, timely intervention, and choosing the right treatment plan. With multiple modern options available and world-class facilities, oral cancer treatment in India is both affordable and effective.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, don’t delay consulting a healthcare provider. Early action could make all the difference.
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