I think no matter what stage it is it is still concerning as oral cancer spreads fast. I know mine went from a stage 2 or even 1 to a 4a while waiting my doctor to return to the states. He saved my life. I no longer have it now 6 years but dealing with dental issues and that dreaded oxygen tank they will try to talk me into going into. I’m terrified right now too. But know this, we live in a time where so many of us are surviving and beating it. And we are fortunate to have as much help here as we do. So many in third world countries have no medical care or even the internet. I know that doesn’t help that much but it I think it gives us hope.