Buccal Mucosa or Cheek cancer

Buccal mucosa or cheek cancer is a type of oral cancer that occurs in the inner lining of the cheeks, called the buccal mucosa. This type of cancer is a subtype of head and neck cancer and typically arises from the squamous cells, which are flat cells that line the buccal mucosa.

Risk Factors:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco significantly increases the risk.
• Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use, especially in combination with tobacco, heightens the risk.
• Betel Quid/Paan Chewing: Common in some Asian cultures, chewing areca nut (betel quid or paan) is a major risk factor.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Some oral cancers, including buccal mucosa cancer, may be linked to HPV infection.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Lack of dental care can also contribute to oral cancers.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun may cause cancer on the lips, which could extend into the buccal mucosa.
• Ill Fitting Dentures: Ill-fitting dentures can cause chronic irritation, sores, and ulcers on the buccal mucosa due to repeated friction and pressure. Over time, this persistent irritation can lead to changes in the mucosal cells, increasing the risk of cancer.

Symptoms:

• A persistent sore or ulcer in the cheek that doesn’t heal.
• White or red patches inside the mouth.
• Pain or discomfort in the cheek or mouth.
• Difficulty in chewing or moving the jaw.
• Swelling or lumps in the cheek or around the jaw.
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.

Treatment:

Treatment options depend on the stage of cancer and may include:

• Surgery: Removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells, often combined with radiation therapy.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific cancer cells without affecting normal cells.