(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) Buccal Mucosa Cancer

(DECEMBER-2025)

Buccal Mucosa Cancer

Alcohol consumption, even in small amounts, significantly increases the risk of Buccal Mucosa Cancer (BMC), a common and aggressive form of oral cancer in India, according to a recent study.

About Buccal Mucosa Cancer (BMC):

It refers to a type of oral cancer that originates in the inner lining of the cheeks, called the buccal mucosa.
It usually occurs in the thin, flat cells called squamous cells that line the buccal mucosa and other parts of the mouth. Hence, most BMC cases are Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC).
It is the predominant form of oral cancer in the Indian subcontinent.
It primarily affects individuals with risk factors such as tobacco use and alcohol use, which causes cellular changes in the cheek lining.
Symptoms commonly include persistent sores, lumps, pain, and difficulty chewing or moving the cheek.
Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the cancer stage.
Early detection is essential for improving prognosis and the buccal mucosa cancer survival rate.