Health experts warn of oral cancer risks and food safety practices in Taiwan

Medical professionals in Taiwan are issuing health warnings regarding lifestyle habits and food safety practices. A 70-year-old man in Taichung was recently diagnosed with oral cancer featuring a 7-centimeter tumor that had eroded bone and metastasized to lymph nodes. Doctors noted the patient had a long history of consuming betel nut and alcohol, which significantly increases cancer risk. Experts advise that oral ulcers lasting more than two weeks or the appearance of white or red patches should be screened immediately.

Regarding food safety, gastroenterologists are clarifying misconceptions about leftover food. Doctors state that leftover food is not inherently carcinogenic, but improper storage poses a high risk of food poisoning. The critical factor is how long food remains at room temperature before refrigeration. It is recommended to refrigerate leftovers within two hours, or within one hour if temperatures exceed 32°C. Reheating food cannot necessarily neutralize toxins produced by bacteria if the food was left out too long.