Oral cancer, specifically lip cancer, can form in any part of the mouth. Most oral cancers begin in the cells that cover the surfaces of the lips. Tests to diagnose oral cancer include a physical exam, endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging tests.

Symptoms

  • White or red patches in your mouth
  • A mouth sore that won't heal
  • Bleeding in your mouth

Treatments

Oral cancer treatments may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy or a combination of treatments.

Risk Factors

The risk of developing lip cancer is higher if you are male, use tobacco, drink lots of alcohol, experience frequent sun exposure, have HPV, or have a history of head or neck cancer. 

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

department
Our multidisciplinary team brings together experts who collaborate on your unique head and neck cancer care from consultation through treatment and follow-up.
department
The OMFS Oncology team at BMC offers unique expertise for patients with tumors of the jaw, mouth, and face. Our holistic experience spans diagnosis, treatment, and reconstruction,…
department
The Department of Radiation Oncology at Boston Medical Center is committed to providing expert, compassionate care in a state-of-the-art facility. Our team of skilled radiation on…
department
As one of the oldest and most renowned oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) departments in the United States, our service at BMC specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide arr…