Second cancer: Oral cancer

What is oral cancer as a second form of cancer?

This page belongs to Second form of cancer. We recommend reading that information first.

The mouth consists of the lips, tongue, cheeks, palate, salivary glands, and throat. Sometimes oral cells begin to divide uncontrollably and form a tumor. This is called oral cancer. The chance of developing oral cancer after childhood cancer is very small. You can do a number of things to reduce the risk of oral cancer, such as not smoking (or being exposed to secondhand smoke).

Do I have an increased risk of oral cancer?

Everyone, including people who have not had cancer, can develop oral cancer. However, some cancer treatments can increase the risk.

The following treatments can increase the risk of oral cancer:

• Radiation to the mouth or to an area where the mouth is located

• Graft-versus-host disease in the mouth after allogeneic stem cell transplantation

You can see in your treatment summary whether you have received one of these treatments or had this condition. If you do not have a summary, you can contact the LATER clinic or the hospital where you were treated. Oral cancer does not always have to be caused by treatment. Other causes can include: tobacco smoking, alcohol, drugs, and HPV (human papillomavirus).

What are the symptoms and signs of oral cancer?

Certain symptoms and signs may indicate oral cancer. Even if you do not have them at the moment, it is important to recognize them.

• Sores in the mouth that do not heal and may be painful

• Lumps in the mouth and/or neck that do not disappear

• Discoloration in the mouth

• Numbness, pain, or bleeding in the mouth

• Difficulty swallowing, eating, or speaking

• Loose teeth

• Bad breath

Often these symptoms have a different cause. However, rapid diagnosis and treatment are very important. If you recognize any of these symptoms, contact your general practitioner immediately.

I have an increased risk of oral cancer. What tests are necessary and when?

If you have an increased risk of oral cancer, regular check-ups are not necessary. If you experience symptoms or signs, go to your general practitioner immediately. They will likely perform a physical examination.

What happens if I (might) have oral cancer?

If you (might) have oral cancer, your general practitioner or LATER physician will refer you to an oncology team. This team consists of:

• Ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT specialist)

• Maxillofacial surgeon (surgeon specialized in mouth and jaw)

• Radiation oncologist

The oncology team will conduct further tests and discuss treatment options with you if necessary.

What else can I do?

Living with an (increased risk of) oral cancer can be difficult. Talking with friends and family can help. Contact with people in a similar situation can also be helpful, for example through a patient association such as VOX, part of the Dutch Childhood Cancer Association.

Above all, take good care of yourself. You can reduce the risk of oral cancer with a healthy lifestyle. It is especially important not to smoke (or be exposed to secondhand smoke), to drink little or no alcohol, and to take good care of your mouth and teeth. Also get vaccinated against HPV (human papillomavirus) if you have not yet received this vaccination. Take care of your mental health as well. Small changes can already have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing.

It is important that you know you have an increased risk of oral cancer and that you recognize the symptoms and signs. Contact your general practitioner or LATER physician if you have questions or are concerned after reading this information.

Where can I find more information?

This LATER website also contains information about:

• Healthy lifestyle

• Mental health

• Oral and dental problems

• Second form of cancer

In the PanCare Plain Language Summaries you will find links to reliable information in English.

You can search for information about oral cancer online, but keep in mind that it is not always up-to-date and accurate.

Disclaimer

This information is based on the plain language summary of the guideline below, created by the PanCare Plain Information Group, and has been adapted to the Dutch LATER guideline where necessary. If you experience symptoms and signs, do not rely solely on this information, but consult your general practitioner, LATER physician, or specialist.

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