Why Do Betel Nut Chewers Develop Oral Cancer?
Disease description:
I’ve been chewing betel nuts for many years. Today, a friend suddenly told me it can cause oral cancer—why does betel nut chewing lead to oral cancer?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Betel nut contains carcinogens that come into direct contact with the oral cavity. Certain chemical components in betel nut undergo chemical reactions in saliva, leading to ulceration of the oral mucosa. If the oral mucosa is already damaged, continued chewing of betel nut can cause pathological changes and malignant transformation of oral cells, ultimately resulting in oral cancer. Patients are advised to maintain good oral hygiene in daily life.
