Lip Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options

Lip cancer begins when cells on the lips start growing abnormally and multiply without control, leading to the formation of tumors (solid masses of tissue) or lesions (abnormal areas of skin). Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for nearly 9 out of 10 lip cancer cases and develops in the outer skin cells of the lips. Basal cell carcinoma and melanoma occur less often.

Cancer of the lip can appear on either the upper or lower lip, though it most often affects the lower lip. A sore, blister, ulcer, or lump that does not heal over time often serves as the earliest and most noticeable sign.

Lip cancer represents the most frequent type of oral cancer, yet it accounts for less than 1% of all cancer diagnoses in the United States. Overall, only about 0.1% of people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with lip cancer during their lifetime.

Signs and Symptoms of Lip Cancer

Recognizing lip cancer early can improve treatment outcomes. Watch for the following signs and symptoms:

• A sore on the lip that does not heal and lasts longer than expected
• A flat or slightly raised patch on the lip that appears white or red on lighter skin or dark brown or gray on darker skin
• Pain, numbness, or tingling in the lips or inside the mouth
• Teeth that feel loose or noticeable changes in denture fit
• Ongoing bleeding from the lips or thickened areas of lip tissue
• Swelling in the jaw or nearby areas

Why Lip Cancer Develops

Doctors have not identified a single, direct cause of lip cancer. Like other cancers, it begins when changes in a cell’s DNA disrupt normal growth and division. These altered cells continue to multiply, form abnormal tissue, and can invade nearby healthy areas.

Researchers have not found one specific trigger for these DNA changes. However, they observe common patterns among people diagnosed with lip cancer. Many of these factors relate to daily habits and environmental exposure, which can increase the chance of abnormal cell growth over time.

Factors That Increase the Risk of Lip Cancer

Common risk factors include:

• Use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco
• Frequent or heavy alcohol intake
• Infection with certain types of human papillomavirus, which is linked to cancers of the mouth and throat
• Older age, particularly over 55, though HPV-related cases often appear at a younger age
• Extended exposure to sunlight or artificial UV sources, such as tanning beds
• Diet low in fruits and vegetables
• Inherited genetic conditions that increase cancer risk

While some factors, such as age or genetics, remain outside your control, lifestyle changes can lower overall risk. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, protecting lips from excessive sun exposure, and reducing the risk of HPV infection through safer sexual practices all support better prevention.

How Doctors Diagnose Lip Cancer

Doctors use several steps to confirm a lip cancer diagnosis.

• Clinical examination: The doctor checks the lips, mouth, face, and neck for visible changes or abnormal areas. They also discuss current symptoms and how long they have been present.
• Tissue testing: A small piece of suspicious tissue is removed and sent to a laboratory. A specialist examines the sample to confirm the presence of cancer, identify the cancer type, and assess how aggressive the cells appear.
• Imaging studies: Scans help doctors see whether the cancer has spread beyond the lip. These may include CT, MRI, or PET scans.

Treatment Options for Lip Cancer

Doctors choose treatment based on tumor size, location, and whether the cancer has spread.

• Surgical removal: Surgeons remove the cancer along with a small area of healthy tissue around it. After removal, they reconstruct the lip to support normal speaking, eating, and drinking. Smaller tumors usually need simple repair, while larger tumors may require reconstructive procedures using tissue from another part of the body. Surgery may also include the removal of affected lymph nodes in the neck.
• Radiation treatment: Radiation uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. Doctors may use it as a primary treatment or after surgery. Treatment may target only the affected lip or both the lip and nearby lymph nodes. In some cases, doctors place radiation material directly on the lip for a short period, which allows higher, focused doses.
• Drug-based therapy: Chemotherapy uses cancer-fighting drugs to destroy rapidly dividing cells. Doctors often combine it with radiation therapy to improve treatment response. For advanced cases, chemotherapy helps reduce symptoms and improve comfort.
• Targeted therapy: This approach focuses on specific genes or proteins that help cancer cells grow and survive. By blocking these targets, the treatment damages or destroys cancer cells. Doctors often combine targeted therapy with chemotherapy for people with lip cancer.
• Immunotherapy: These medications strengthen the immune system so it can recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Doctors usually recommend immunotherapy for advanced lip cancer when standard treatments no longer provide benefit or remain suitable.

Also Read: Immunotherapy vs Chemotherapy: Understanding the Difference in Cancer Treatment

Advancing Oncology Treatments with Clinical Research

Clinical research studies in Nebraska provide patients with access to potential new therapies and expert care. For example, ongoing head and neck cancer clinical trials allow participants to explore new treatment possibilities while helping researchers develop better strategies for managing the disease. These studies play a crucial role in improving outcomes for current and future oncology patients.

Other Types of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can develop in various parts of the mouth and surrounding areas. Understanding the different types helps in recognizing symptoms and seeking timely treatment.

• Tongue Cancer
• Gum Cancer
• Throat Cancer
• Palate Cancer
• Floor of Mouth Cancer
• Buccal Mucosa Cancer
• Salivary Gland Cancer

Preventing Lip Cancer

While lip cancer cannot always be prevented, you can lower your risk by taking certain precautions:

• Protect your lips from the sun using sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Avoid or limit the use of tanning beds.
• Reduce alcohol consumption.
• Quit tobacco products and avoid exposure to tobacco smoke.
• Schedule regular dental checkups for early detection of any abnormalities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the signs, risk factors, and treatment options for lip and oral cancers is essential for early detection and effective management. Lifestyle choices, regular checkups, and prompt medical attention play a crucial role in improving outcomes and supporting long-term health for those at risk or affected by these cancers.