Understanding the Key Risk Factors of Oral Cancer Treatment

Understanding the Key Risk Factors of Oral
Cancer Treatment
Oral cancer is a debilitating condition that affects
millions worldwide. Thanks to advancements in
healthcare and medical sciences, we now have various
treatment options for oral cancer. However, like any
other medical procedure, oral cancer treatment comes
with its own set of risks and challenges.
This article will examine the key dangers of treating
oral cancer and explain the possible problems that
patients might encounter. Additionally, we will discuss
the oral cancer treatment cost in India, providing

valuable information for those seeking medical
assistance in the country.
Risk Factors of Oral Cancer Treatment:
1. Surgical Risks:
Surgery is often the primary treatment for oral cancer.
While it aims to remove cancerous tissues, it carries
certain risks such as infection, bleeding, and damage to
nearby structures like nerves or blood vessels. These
complications can impact the patient's overall recovery
and quality of life.
Understanding these risks and complications is
essential for patients and their families to make
informed decisions and prepare for the potential
challenges ahead.
Infection: Following surgery, there is a risk of
developing an infection at the surgical site. This can
occur due to the introduction of bacteria during the
procedure or inadequate wound care post-surgery.
Bleeding: Surgery for oral cancer involves incisions and
manipulation of tissues, which can result in bleeding.
While surgeons take precautions to control bleeding
during the procedure, there is still a possibility of postoperative
bleeding.
Damage to nearby structures: The oral cavity is a
complex structure with numerous vital components,
including nerves, blood vessels, and adjacent organs
such as the tongue or jawbone. Though the surgeons
take utmost care not to harm the adjacent structure,

there still is a small probability of damage to nearby
healthy tissues.
Functional impairment: Depending on the extent of
the tumor and the surgical approach, oral cancer
surgery can impact the patient's ability to speak,
swallow, or chew properly.
Psychological and emotional impact: The physical
changes resulting from oral cancer surgery can have a
significant psychological and emotional impact on
patients.
2. Radiation Therapy:
Radiation therapy is commonly employed in
conjunction with surgery or as a standalone treatment
for oral cancer. While it can effectively destroy cancer
cells, it may also damage healthy tissues in the process.
Radiation-induced side effects may include oral
mucositis (inflammation of the lining of the mouth),
dry mouth, dental problems, and difficulty swallowing.
3. Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy utilizes drugs to kill cancer cells, but it
can also affect healthy cells in the body. Common side
effects of chemotherapy for oral cancer include
nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, and an increased
risk of infections. These side effects may vary in
intensity depending on the drugs used and the
individual's overall health.
4. Nutritional Challenges:
Oral cancer treatments can cause difficulties in eating
and swallowing, leading to significant weight loss and

malnutrition. Adequate nutrition plays a crucial role in
maintaining the patient's strength and immune system.
Therefore, proper management of nutritional
challenges becomes vital during treatment to support
the patient's recovery.
5. Psychological Impact:
The diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer can take a
toll on the patient's mental and emotional well-being.
The fear, stress, and anxiety associated with the
disease can be overwhelming. It is essential to provide
psychological support to patients undergoing oral
cancer treatment, as it significantly influences their
overall healing process.
Oral Cancer Treatment Cost in India:
Medical tourism in India has evolved significantly over
the last few years due to availability of advanced
healthcare facilities and comparatively lower
treatment costs. When it comes to oral cancer
treatment, India offers a range of options at affordable
prices, making it an attractive choice for patients
seeking quality care without breaking the bank.
The oral cancer treatment cost in India can vary
depending on several factors such as the stage of
cancer, the treatment modality chosen, the hospital or
clinic, and the city. Generally, the cost of oral cancer
treatment in India is significantly lower compared to
many other countries, including the United States,
Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Surgical procedures for oral cancer treatment, such as
tumor resection, can cost anywhere from INR 2,00,000
to INR 6,00,000 (approximately USD 2400 to 7300),
depending on the complexity and extent of the
surgery. Radiation therapy charges can range from INR
100,000 to INR 400,000 (approximately USD 1200 to
4850) depending on the type of radiation beam
required and may vary based on the patient's
condition.
Chemotherapy costs can vary widely depending on the
drugs used and the duration of treatment. On average,
chemotherapy for oral cancer in India can range from
INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 (approximately USD 675 to
USD 2,700) per cycle.
It is important to note that these are approximate cost
ranges, and actual costs may vary. It is advisable for
patients to consult with their healthcare providers or
hospitals in India to get a more accurate estimate of
the treatment costs based on their specific case.
In addition to the lower treatment costs, India also
boasts of world-class medical facilities, skilled
healthcare professionals, and a strong focus on patient
care. The best oncologists in India are surgeons/
medical professionals who have been trained at some
of the top-notch institutions in India and abroad, have
several years of experience behind them and have a
wide range of experience.
Also, the best cancer hospitals in India have state-ofthe-art
infrastructure, most advanced technologies,

and experienced oncology teams specializing in oral
cancer treatment.
Conclusion:
Oral cancer treatment comes with its fair share of risks
and challenges. Surgical procedures, radiation therapy,
and chemotherapy can have potential complications
and side effects that need to be carefully managed.
Nutritional support and psychological care are also
essential elements of the treatment process. For those
considering oral cancer treatment, India offers a costeffective
option with its affordable treatment costs and
high-quality healthcare facilities. However, it is crucial
for patients to thoroughly research and consult with
the best cancer hospitals in India to understand the
treatment options, costs, and necessary arrangements
for a successful and comfortable treatment journey.
Remember, early detection and timely treatment are
key factors in improving the prognosis of oral cancer. If
you or someone you know suspects oral cancer, it is
important to seek medical attention promptly to
receive the necessary evaluation and begin the
treatment process.