Doctors raise the importance of oral screening and tobacco cessation to prevent oral cancers

Experts emphasize early oral cancer detection and tobacco cessation on World No Tobacco Day in Chennai. #OraLife screening program launched.

CHENNAI

In line with the World No Tobacco Day (WNTD), experts highlighted the importance of screening to detect oral cancers early and the need to quit tobacco to prevent oral cancers.

A number of events were held on Friday to mark WNTD, which falls on May 31. Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) launched #OraLife, a nationwide oral cancer screening programme aimed at early detection and prevention.

The programme offers comprehensive oral screening conducted by trained oncologists and surgeons, identifying early warning signs such as persistent ulcers, red or white patches, or non-healing sores.

Sandeep Duarah, senior consultant, surgical oncology, ACC Vanagaram, emphasised that everyone is vulnerable to oral cancer, and screening is essential as it can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. Naveen Hedne, senior consultant, head and neck surgical Oncology, ACC Teynampet, noted that most patients still present at advanced stages, stressing the critical importance of early detection.

Sapna Nangia, director – head, neck and breast - senior consultant, radiation oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, added that oral cancer remains the most common cancer among Indian men, with significant disparities between incidence and survival.

“Everyone carries some risk. No one should ignore even a sharp tooth,” cautioned N. Mahathi, professor, oral oncology and maxillofacial surgery, and a representative of the Isha Foundation.