APROPOS the report ‘Oral cancer epidemic in the making due to gutka, paan consumption’ (Nov 5). Oral cancer has assumed horrendous proportions in Pakistan in general and Karachi in particular. It is the most prevalent form of cancer following lung cancer.

Ironically, more than 90 per cent of cases are preventable as the main causative factors are manpuri, gutka, and paan chewing. The chemicals released from these agents cause loss of appetite leading to malnutrition, a sense of of elation and euphoria, and causing addiction.

The consumption of these items becomes more deadly when an individual acquires the habit of packing any of these carcinogenic agents in a part of their mouth, or sleeping with them in the oral cavity, and sucking on its liquid.

Another equally alarming ailment in Pakistani society is oral sub mucous fibrosis, which can lead to oral cancer.

In this condition, the mouth opening progressively decreases to a bare minimum of a few millimetres due to tightening of the oral tissues. Again, the sole cause is the use of manpuri, gutka, paan and naswar consumption. Initial symptom of this condition can be a burning sensation in the mouth while eating.

Anyone who has a mouth for more than three weeks, or who experiences burning sensation in the mouth or the opening is getting constricted should consult a dental surgeon immediately.

People who a sharp broken tooth or an ill-fitting denture should also beware as these can also cause oral ulcers which if left untreated can become cancerous.

Oral cancers are extremely lethal and can prove fatal if they are not diagnosed at a very early stage.

Dr Mahmood Shah

President, Pakistan Dental Association, Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 8th, 2017