How can you help your friends who drink alcohol, smoke, or chew betel leaves prevent oral cancer?

Oral cancer is the most common cancer among men in Sri Lanka. Before cancer develops in the mouth, several early changes may appear.

Early warning signs in the mouth:

• Persistent red or white patches
• Unusual burning sensation in the mouth
• Thickening or pale appearance of the lips and inner cheeks
• A long-lasting wound that does not heal

To detect these changes, you should examine your mouth at least once a month using a mirror.

Check carefully by:

• Pulling the lips outward with your fingers to inspect the inner lips
• Looking at the inner cheeks
• Sticking out the tongue and checking all sides of it
• Lifting the tongue and examining the underside and the floor of the mouth

Look for any of the above changes.

If you notice any changes in your mouth, or if you:

• Chew betel leaves (two or three times a day or more)
• Are a regular smoker or consume alcohol at least once a week
• Chew areca nut (paan) packets daily

You are at a significantly higher risk of developing oral cancer. In such cases, you should visit a nearby dentist as soon as possible for a proper oral examination.

Avoiding betel chewing, smoking, and alcohol consumption can greatly reduce your risk of developing oral cancer.