55-Year-Old Man's Long-Term Betel Nut Chewing Leads to Potential Oral Cancer Scare

Wang, a 55-year-old transport worker who had been chewing betel nuts and smoking for years to stay alert, noticed rough, sandy-like tissue in his mouth, along with a growth on his lips and bleeding gums. He sought medical attention at Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital. Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist Dr. Chai Youren initially suspected potential oral cancer signs. Although initial biopsy results were inconclusive, the doctor's clinical experience suggested the lip growth showed precancerous wart-like changes. After detailed consultation, the doctor decided to perform a wide surgical excision, removing approximately 2.5 centimeters of tissue and reconstructing the area using lip skin grafts. The patient's recovery was successful, with no impact on appearance or quality of life, and no recurrence was found in subsequent years. Taiwan's Ministry of Health reports that oral cancer affects 7,000-8,000 patients annually, with around 3,000 deaths. The primary risk group is males aged 40-50, with common risk factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, and betel nut chewing. Dr. Chai emphasized that early-stage oral cancer often presents minimal symptoms. Survival rates vary significantly by disease stage: Stage 1 has an 80% five-year survival rate, while Stage 4 drops to approximately 30%. The hospital's deputy director, Dr. Xu Rongyuan, stressed the importance of early screening programs, noting that early detection and comprehensive treatment can maintain high survival rates and minimal lifestyle disruption.