#OralCancer

Individuals who use cannabis may face a markedly increased risk of developing oral cancer, with recent research suggesting that this risk could be similar to that experienced by cigarette smokers. This emerging evidence is raising concerns among health experts globally and is especially relevant for Thai policymakers, medical professionals, and the public as cannabis laws and usage patterns continue to shift in Thailand.

The latest study, summarized by Earth.com, provides robust evidence that regular cannabis users are at a significantly higher risk of developing oral cancers. Oral cancer, which encompasses cancers of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat, is already a major public health issue in Thailand and across Southeast Asia, with known risk factors including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and betel quid chewing. Now, cannabis can be added to this list of significant concerns.

A growing body of medical research indicates that regular cannabis use is linked to a higher risk of oral cancers, including cancers of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat. Experts say these findings are especially relevant as cannabis use expands across Thailand.

According to studies from leading cancer research institutions, the risk of oral cancer rises with sustained cannabis consumption and can be comparable to risks associated with tobacco. Thai health professionals emphasize the potential impact on the country’s healthcare system where oral cancers already pose a significant challenge.

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California San Diego has revealed that individuals diagnosed with cannabis use disorder are three times more likely to develop oral cancer compared to those without the disorder. This ground-breaking finding, published in July 2025, raises significant concerns for public health officials in Thailand, where the decriminalization of cannabis has triggered a surge in cannabis consumption, especially among young adults and recreational users.

A large UC San Diego study finds that individuals with cannabis use disorder are about three times more likely to develop oral cancer than those without the disorder. Published in mid-2025, the research arrives as Thailand expands cannabis access, raising public health questions for a country navigating rapid legalization and shifting social norms.

Oral cancer affects the mouth, gums, and throat and remains a global health challenge, including in Thailand, where oral cavity cancers contribute a notable share of cancer deaths. Traditional risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use have long driven these outcomes. The UC San Diego study analyzed hundreds of thousands of electronic health records and identified a robust link between chronic, problematic cannabis use and higher oral cancer risk, after careful adjustment for tobacco and alcohol consumption.

A leading Mayo Clinic physician has outlined three straightforward actions everyone can take to lower their risk of developing head and neck cancers, a group of potentially life-threatening diseases affecting the mouth, throat, and voice box. The recommendations underscore the importance of prevention at a time when incidence rates for certain types of these cancers are rising globally, including in Thailand. Public health experts emphasize that adopting these strategies could dramatically reduce the burden of cancer in both individuals and communities.

A respected Mayo Clinic physician outlines three practical steps people can take to lower the risk of head and neck cancers, a group of diseases affecting the mouth, throat, and voice box. The guidance emphasizes prevention at a time when global rates are rising, including in Thailand. Public health experts say adopting these strategies could significantly lessen the cancer burden for individuals and communities.

Head and neck cancers contribute to a substantial share of cancer cases each year. In Thailand, oral cancer remains a particular challenge due to behavioral and environmental factors. The Mayo Clinic guidance aligns with international research that links lifestyle choices to cancer risk, making it highly relevant for readers seeking credible, actionable health information.

Betel nut, known locally as หมาก, remains a vivid thread in Thai markets, temple courtyards, and social rituals. The areca nut from the Areca catechu palm is both a symbol of hospitality and a traditional remedy, even as new research questions its safety. This piece revisits the cultural significance while presenting current health perspectives for Thai readers.

Across the region, betel chewing involves the nut, slaked lime, and betel leaf. In Thailand, the practice is woven into weddings, offerings, and daily interactions. The bright red stain on lips and teeth has long marked social status and community belonging, underscoring how deeply the habit is embedded in life’s ceremonies and everyday moments.

In the vibrant markets and shaded courtyards across Thailand and Southeast Asia, the distinctive reddish tinge of betel nut-chewers’ lips reveals a tradition as old as Thai civilization itself. The seed of the Areca catechu palm—better known as “หมาก” or “betel nut”—stands at the crossroads of culture, medicine, ritual, and modern controversy. Today, it continues to be revered as both a symbol of hospitality and a medicine of tradition, while modern research sheds new light on its potential and peril (Wikipedia).

A new study points to a surprising contributor to rising oral cancer cases: sugary beverages. Researchers analyzed dietary records from about 162,600 women over three decades and found that those who drink one or more sugary drinks daily had nearly five times the risk of developing oral cancer compared with those who rarely drink them. Among non-smokers or light drinkers, the risk remained elevated at about five-and-a-half times for daily sugary drink consumers.