Can tongue cancer be cured?

The treatment outcomes for tongue cancer vary depending on factors such as clinical stage and treatment methods. Overall, tongue cancer cannot be completely cured, but clinical cure can be achieved through treatment. The cure rate for early-stage tongue cancer (e.g., stages I and II) is relatively high. With comprehensive treatments such as surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, the five-year survival rate is high, potentially reaching a cure rate of more than 85%. For middle- and late-stage tongue cancer (e.g., stages III and IV), the cure rate is significantly lower, typically between 30% and 60%, and the cancer cells may spread extensively, affecting the patient's quality of life and survival period. Therefore, early detection and early treatment are crucial for tongue cancer, along with comprehensive therapeutic approaches to improve both survival rates and quality of life for patients. Additionally, patients should maintain good oral hygiene and healthy dietary habits to reduce the risk of recurrence.