Oral cancer—including cancers of the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, floor/roof of the mouth, and throat—is often silent in its early stages, which is why it’s frequently diagnosed at a later, more serious stage. But when caught early, the survival rate exceeds 80%.
The good news? You can spot warning signs yourself—if you know what to look for. Here’s what every adult should know.
🔍 7 Early Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
These symptoms last longer than 2 weeks and do not go away on their own:
1. A Sore That Won’t Heal
- A red or white patch, ulcer, or sore inside the mouth or on the lip that doesn’t heal within 14 days—even if it’s painless.
2. Persistent Mouth Pain or Numbness
