Lip Cancer

Overview

Lip cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control, resulting in tumors (solid tissue masses) or lesions (abnormal areas of skin) on your lips. Most lip cancers (about 90%) are squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cancer starts in the cells located in your skin’s outer layer. Less common types are basal cell carcinoma and melanoma.

Lip cancer can develop on either your upper or lower lip, but it’s more likely to start on your lower lip. The most common sign is a sore, blister, ulcer or lump on your bottom lip that won’t go away.

How common is lip cancer?

Lip cancer is the most common type of oral (mouth) cancer, but makes up less than 1% of all cancer diagnoses total in the United States. Only about .1% of people in the U.S. will get diagnosed with lip cancer at some point in their lives.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

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Diagnosis & treatment

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