Can prolonged use of tobacco be a cause of oral cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My friend's father has been using chewable tobacco for 40 years, and he is now 60. He recently injured his lower jaw behind the lower lips. After consulting a doctor, the physician expressed concern and scheduled a biopsy for the next day. We accompanied him to the appointment.

The doctor mentioned that his oral hygiene was not optimal and speculated it could be a neoplasm lesion. We are eager to know the possible diagnosis but must wait for the biopsy results, which will take 15 days. Currently, we feel quite uncertain about the situation.

Kindly guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Tobacco, known for its carcinogenic properties, is particularly concerning when consumed through chewing. Given your uncle's prolonged history of this habit, there is a heightened concern. Trauma, especially in such cases, can potentially lead to cancer or malignant ulcers, often diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that originates in the squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells found on the skin's surface. These ulcers exhibit distinctive features, being painless yet rapidly growing, visually unappealing with a foul odor, firm or hard to touch, and prone to bleeding upon contact.

To assist further, I suggest you share pictures of the affected area and provide details on how long he has been experiencing the lesion. Additionally, the biopsy results are taking longer than usual, as it typically takes five to seven days.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.