Following comedian Dave Coulier’s announcement of his tongue cancer diagnosis, experts are sharing essential information about this condition. Coulier, 66, revealed in a Tuesday interview that he has early-stage P16 cancer, which is a form of oropharyngeal tongue cancer. The term “oropharyngeal” refers to cancer developing at the base of the tongue, while “P16” indicates an association with HPV (human papillomavirus).
This news comes mere months after the “Full House” star disclosed his battle with an aggressive type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is “totally unrelated” to this new diagnosis. “I went in for a routine PET scan and something flared up,” Coulier said. “I was diagnosed with P16 squamous cell carcinoma at the base of my tongue.”
Earlier this year, on April 1, he made a statement about being cancer-free after completing treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, expressing, “It’s a shock when you think you’re cured after chemotherapy, only to find out you have another type of cancer.” Coulier will undergo 35 radiation treatments.
Understanding Tongue Cancer
The National Cancer Institute explains that tongue cancer can develop in the front of the tongue, known as the oral cavity, or at the back, referred to as oropharynx. Risk factors and outcomes can significantly differ based on the cancer’s origin. For instance, about 20,040 new cases of tongue cancer and around 3,270 deaths are projected for 2025, though these figures only represent cancers affecting the front two-thirds of the tongue.
If all oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers are considered together, as projected by the American Cancer Society, the figures increase to approximately 59,660 new cases and roughly 12,770 deaths in 2025. The overall five-year survival rate for tongue cancer stands at 71%.
Recent studies indicate rising cases of tongue cancer in the U.S. across various demographics. Dr. Mark Siegel, a senior medical analyst at FOX News, noted that this increase is linked to a substantial rise in HPV. Notably, if the cancer is HPV-related, the prognosis can be quite positive, with an 80 to 90% cure rate.
According to Dr. George Semenuk, a medical oncologist based in California, tongue cancer ranks among the fastest-growing head and neck cancers. He emphasizes that early detection is crucial.
Warning Signs and Risk Factors
Dr. Semenuk points out warning signs to watch for, including: persistent tongue pain or ulcers, discomfort while swallowing, lumps, and alterations in speech. He advises anyone experiencing symptoms lasting more than two weeks to seek medical evaluation.
Other common indicators of tongue cancer include a lump or a thickening of the tongue, red or white spots, and ongoing soreness in the mouth, tongue, or throat. Patients may also experience strange sensations like numbness or burning.
If the cancer spreads, it might cause symptoms like neck lumps (due to swollen lymph nodes), one-sided ear pain, or a stiff/swollen jaw. Major risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol use, and HPV, with young non-smokers also experiencing an uptick in cases.
Treatment and Prognosis
Treatment plans for tongue cancer vary depending on the disease’s stage and location. Dr. Semenuk explains, “Typically, treatment consists of a mix of surgery, radiation therapy, and possibly chemotherapy or targeted therapy for more advanced cases.” He adds that at City of Hope, specialized surgical and precision-guided therapies are used to help preserve speech and swallowing functionality.
Dr. Siegel emphasizes that tongue cancer is often more responsive to surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy when diagnosed early. The earlier it’s detected, the better the chances of a favorable prognosis. Consequently, it’s essential for individuals to monitor changes in their oral health and get regular dental check-ups, along with considering HPV vaccinations to lower their risks.
