Lip cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that begins when cells on the lips grow uncontrollably, forming abnormal growths or lesions. This article provides an overview of its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures.
What is Lip Cancer
Lip cancer most commonly originates from the thin, flat squamous cells that line the lips, accounting for over 90% of cases. While it can occur on either the upper or lower lip, it is more frequently found on the lower lip.
Less common types of lip cancer include basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma usually arises in sun-exposed areas and rarely spreads, though it can be locally aggressive. Melanoma, a more aggressive form of skin cancer, can also occur on the lips.
Factors Contributing to Lip Cancer
Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from sunlight, is a risk factor for lip cancer. This is particularly true for the lower lip, which receives more direct sun exposure than the upper lip. Using tanning beds, which emit UV radiation, also increases this risk.
Tobacco use in any form, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff, introduces carcinogens to lip cells. Excessive alcohol consumption also increases the risk, with a higher risk when combined with tobacco use. Infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) and a weakened immune system can contribute to lip cancer. Fair skin also increases susceptibility.
Identifying Signs and Diagnosis
Common signs that may indicate lip cancer include:
A sore, lesion, or lump on the lip that does not heal within two weeks.
A flat or slightly raised whitish discoloration.
Red patches.
Bleeding.
Pain, tingling, or numbness of the lips.
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination by a doctor or dentist, who will inspect the lips, mouth, face, and neck for suspicious areas. If an abnormal area is found, a biopsy is performed to confirm the presence and type of cancer. Once cancer is confirmed, imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans may be used to determine if the cancer has spread beyond the lip to other areas or lymph nodes. Early detection of lip cancer improves treatment outcomes.
Treatment Methods
Various treatment options are available for lip cancer, with the choice depending on factors such as the cancer’s stage, size, type, and the patient’s overall health. Surgical removal is a common approach, especially for smaller cancers. This may involve wide local excision to remove the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue, or Mohs surgery, a precise technique that removes thin layers of skin until no cancer cells remain. For larger tumors, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to restore lip function and appearance, sometimes involving tissue transfer from other body areas.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to destroy cancer cells. It can be used as a standalone treatment for small tumors, after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells, or to target lymph nodes in the neck if the cancer has spread. Chemotherapy involves drugs that kill cancer cells throughout the body and is sometimes used in combination with radiation therapy, particularly for more advanced cases. Targeted therapy focuses on specific weaknesses within cancer cells, often used with chemotherapy. Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognize and fight cancer cells, and may be considered for advanced lip cancer where other treatments are less effective.
Outlook and Prevention
The outlook for individuals with lip cancer is favorable, especially when detected and treated early. Early diagnosis improves survival rates, with an overall 5-year survival rate as high as 91%. This rate can decrease if the cancer spreads to nearby tissues or distant parts of the body.
Preventive strategies are important for reducing risk. Protecting the lips from sun exposure is recommended, which includes regularly applying broad-spectrum lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher and wearing hats that shade the face. Avoiding tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption are also preventive steps. Considering HPV vaccination can help prevent infections linked to oral cancers. Regular dental and medical check-ups aid in early screening, allowing professionals to identify suspicious changes.