- 65% of oral cancer cases are detected late due to lack of awareness
- A quick monthly two-minute self-check can lead to early detection of cancer
- By turning mirrors into tools of awareness, the experts are empowering individuals to take charge of their health in just two minutes because early action can save lives
- Through this initiative, patients who are visiting hospitals can also activate this self- check-up where mirrors will be strategically placed in the hospital waiting areas
NE HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, MAY 9
India is home to millions of cancer patients and Gujarat is the oral cancer capital of the country. Late diagnosis, lack of awareness, and limited access to timely treatment can lead to higher morbidity and mortality rates. Lifestyle changes and environmental factors have also led to a surge in cases across all age groups. With oral cancer claiming the lives of 5 people every hour in India, Oncowin Cancer Center (OWCC), in association with Merck Specialities Private Limited has launched the “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” campaign here on Friday with the hashtag #ActAgainstOralCancer. This campaign promotes a simple 2-minute monthly self-check that can help in early detection and better outcomes.
This nationwide effort aims to tackle the alarming rise in oral cancer cases by encouraging individuals to perform a quick self-check using mirrors that are almost always available to one and all. Experts are urging the public to look for warning signs such as white or red patches in the mouth, non-healing ulcers or unexplained bleeding, persistent swelling or voice changes. The message is clear: Feel, Look, and Act. Early detection through a quick mirror check can make all the difference between timely treatment and a missed opportunity. By turning mirrors into tools of awareness, the experts are empowering individuals to take charge of their health in just two minutes because early action can save lives. Through this initiative, patients who are visiting hospitals can also activate this self- check-up where mirrors will be strategically placed in the hospital waiting areas.
“India is home to millions of cancer patients. Late diagnosis, lack of awareness, and limited access to timely treatment can lead to higher morbidity and mortality rates. Lifestyle changes and environmental factors have also led to a surge in cases across all age groups. The cases are on the rise due to poor lifestyle habits, tobacco and alcohol use, pollution, and dietary imbalances. Preventive measures include regular screenings, early diagnosis, quitting tobacco, maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, reducing alcohol intake. Public awareness and better healthcare access are also key to reducing the cancer burden in the country,” highlighted Dr. Gaurang Modi (DM Onco)- Consultant Medical Oncology, OWCC.
India is the world’s capital of Head and neck cancer. Every year, around 2 lakh patients are newly diagnosed with Head and neck cancer, which is the highest compared to any other country. In 2022, simply the number of Lip and oral cavity cancer cases were more than a lakh (65%). Adding the rest of the head and neck cancer sub-sites, the numbers will be nothing less than 20-25% of the total male cancers in our country. Unfortunately, in India, around 60 to 70% of patients already have advanced disease (stage 3-4) at the time of diagnosis.
“Head and neck cancer is the most common cancer among Indians. It includes cancers of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, nasopharynx, and larynx. Head and neck cancer cases are steadily increasing, and among them, oral cancer is rising at an alarming rate. The main reason is that people are unaware of the symptoms and do not practice self-examination. While breast cancer awareness has grown over the years, especially about self-exams, the same urgency is missing when it comes to oral cancer. Nearly 65% of patients visit the doctor in advanced stages of the disease, which delays treatment and reduces survival rates. This campaign underscores the importance of a quick monthly self-check that is just two minutes in front of a mirror can make all the difference. Early-stage diagnosis means faster, more effective treatment and a much better chance of recovery,” said Dr. Rushabh Kothari (DM Onco) – Consultant Medical Oncology, OWCC.
“This campaign encourages individuals to follow the simple 2-minute self- check every month as early detection is best prevention. LOOK at the entire mouth in mirror for white or red patches in the mouth, ulcers that don’t heal within 2 weeks and unusual bleeding or loose teeth. FEEL for changes, like lumps or swelling in the jaw or neck, hoarseness or voice change, persistent pain in ear or when swallowing. ACT with urgency if you notice signs, and don’t delay. Visit the doctor to rule the mouth as early check equals to better chances of cure,” underscored Dr. Itesh Khatwani (DM Onco) – Consultant Medical Oncology, OWCC.
“With increasing burden of oral cancer cases in the country, early diagnosis is paramount. Oral Visual Inspection (OVI), mouth self-examination, biopsy and histo-pathological examination enable detection at early stages, facilitating timely intervention. It is also important to integrate palliative care early in the treatment process. Palliative care for oral cancer includes pain management, nutritional support, emotional counseling, and assistance with speech and swallowing to improve the patient’s quality of life. Early palliative care not only alleviates pain but also enhances the overall quality of life for patients, aiding in informed decision-making throughout the disease trajectory. There should be awareness and accessibility of palliative services to ensure holistic support for patients and their families,” concluded Dr. Palak Bhatt (DNB Medi Onco) – Consultant Medical Oncology, OWCC.
The rising surge in oral cancer cases is urgent call for immediate public awareness, early detection, and preventive action. The causes of oral cancer include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection. Oral cancer becomes difficult to treat and is often not preventable in later stages due to delayed diagnosis. Early detection through regular self-checks is key to improving outcomes and helps prevent complications. Complications of oral cancer can include difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and breathing, as well as the spread of cancer to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” campaign will help with timely detection and management of oral cancer.
