Empowering Lives: Doctors Urge Crucial Oral Screenings and Tobacco Cessation to Combat Oral Cancer
Senior oncologists from Apollo Cancer Centre (ACC) and Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) joined forces with Isha Foundation representatives today to launch the OraLife Oral Cancer Screening Program, coinciding with World No Tobacco Day. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the crucial role of early detection in combatting oral cancers and to support Apollo’s nationwide #CutTheCost campaign against tobacco use.
In a series of informative events held to mark World No Tobacco Day on May 31, experts emphasized the vital importance of routine screenings for early detection of oral cancers, along with the urgent need to quit tobacco. The newly introduced #OraLife program focuses on providing thorough oral screenings conducted by trained oncologists and surgeons, aiming to identify early warning signs like persistent ulcers and unusual patches. Sandeep Duarah, a senior consultant in surgical oncology at ACC Vanagaram, remarked that every individual is at risk for oral cancer, stressing that timely diagnosis through screening can be lifesaving.
Naveen Hedne, a senior consultant in head and neck surgical oncology at ACC Teynampet, pointed out a worrying trend: many patients still present with advanced-stage cancers, underlining the crucial need for early detection strategies. Reflecting on the statistics, Sapna Nangia, director of head, neck, and breast radiation oncology at APCC, noted that oral cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer among Indian men, with significant gaps existing between incidence rates and survival outcomes.
“No one should ignore even minor dental issues,” cautioned N. Mahathi, a professor in oral oncology and maxillofacial surgery from Isha Foundation. To enhance community health, ACC has partnered with Isha Foundation to offer integrated tobacco cessation support, addressing the broader dimensions of recovery from cancer.
The event also saw the unveiling of the #CutTheCost campaign, spotlighting the financial burden of tobacco use, estimated at ₹1.1 lakh in additional lifetime healthcare costs per user. Rathna Devi, a senior consultant in radiation oncology, and Kannan, a consultant specializing in head and neck oncology, both from ACC Teynampet, labeled oral cancer screening and tobacco cessation as essential measures and urged the public to discard harmful habits.
In an additional effort, VS Hospitals launched the “Two-minute action for oral cancer protection” campaign, encouraging individuals to perform quick self-checks for early signs of oral cancer. Doctors advised people to inspect their mouths in mirrors for any abnormal changes or signs, such as white or red patches and non-healing sores, advocating for immediate medical consultation upon noticing any abnormalities.
“Tobacco usage in any form-be it smoking or chewing-greatly increases the risk of cancer, particularly in the oral cavity,” stated S. Subramanian, founder chairman and managing director of VS Hospitals. He emphasized the need for ongoing awareness and early screening, which can facilitate effective treatment.
As cancer incidence continues to rise, S. Nithya, associate director and senior consultant in medical oncology at VS Hospitals, highlighted the importance of understanding the adverse effects of tobacco. She urged individuals to quit as soon as possible, noting that it can take 15 to 20 years for the health impacts of tobacco to lessen.
Oral cancers encompass those of the tongue, cheek, throat, and oral cavity-conditions where early symptoms, like unusual patches, should prompt immediate medical attention. Concurrently, CANSTOP, a community organization linked with Sundaram Medical Foundation Hospital, partnered with Rotary District 3234 to raise awareness through a series of activities at Anna Nagar Tower Park. The event featured informative talks, street theatre, and free medical screenings, all aimed at educating the public about the dangers associated with tobacco use.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/doctors-raise-the-importance-of-oral-screening-and-tobacco-cessation-to-prevent-oral-cancers/article69637432.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-05-30 23:03:00
