What are Antioxdants?

An antioxidant is a chemical or substance that inhibits the oxidation of another substance to which it is added. Oxidation causes metal to rust or food to turn brown or rancid. When you squeeze lemon juice on a slice of apple, you are preventing oxidation. Free radicals are byproducts of the oxidation process. Recently there has been an intense interest in the role of antioxidants in destroying free radicals in the body. Recent studies show that a diet rich in antioxidants may prevent or decrease the severity of many chronic diseases including cancer.

Natural antioxidants include vitamin E, vitamin C, carotenoids (of which beta-carotene is the most popular and some of which the body converts to vitamin A), and selenium. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables are rich sources of antioxidants. They include carrots, sweet potatoes, oranges, red peppers, orange peppers, tomatoes, blueberries, strawberries, spinach, and greens. The pigment in blueberries provides some of the highest levels of antioxidants of all pigments studied so far.

What causes mouth Cancer?

Smoking, Pan Chewing and High alcohol intake

How commom is it?

3rd most common cancer in India

On the increase and affecting from 15 years and above.

What can be done?

Early diagnosis is important

Stop smoking, Pan chewing

Reduce alcohol intake

Eat plenty of Fresh fruits and vegetables.

Remember- most mouth conditions are not cancerous!

But it you are worried do not delay in visiting your dentist or doctor.

Can cancer of the oral cavity be screened by simple inspection?

Yes, Both early cancer and pre-cancerous disease can be detected by clinical examination, with inspection and palpation.

Is there any guideline, as to who has to go and see the specialist?

Yes, People with Pan & Betel nut chewing and / or smoking habits or drinking alcohol are more at risk of developing cancer in this area. Therefore, regular screening is advised for them.

How about those who had already given up their chewing habit?

It depends upon the time. How long one used to chew. Chewing for decades represents an increased risk. This can be minimized, but not entirely compensated, by giving up the habit. Chewing, for less than a couple of years, may not represent a significantly increased risk. The persons who had started smoking, chewing or drinking at an early age are more at risk.

Does intensity of smoking or chewing poses any significance?

Yes, There is no question about that.