65% of oral cancer cases are detected late due to a lack of awareness. A quick monthly two-minute self-check can lead to early detection of cancer
Mumbai: In a timely and impactful initiative, Merck Specialities, in collaboration with leading hospitals across India, has launched the “Two-Minute Action Oral Cancer Protection” campaign with the hashtag #ActAgainstOralCancer. 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. Dr Jeyhan Dhabhar, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Dr Jimmy Mirani, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Dr. Delnaz J. Dhabhar, MD, Physician and Palliative Care Expert, and medical staff were present.
“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 Jeyhan Dhabhar, Consultant Medical Oncologist, B.N.D Onco Centre at K G Mittal Hospital.
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, the number of Lip and oral cavity cancer cases was 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.
“This campaign encourages individuals to follow the simple 2-minute self-check every month, as early detection is the best prevention. LOOK at the entire mouth in the 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 the ear, or when swallowing. ACT with urgency if you notice signs, and don’t delay. Visit the doctor to rule them out as early detection equals better chances of cure,” underscored Dr Jimmy Mirani, Consultant Medical Oncologist, B.N.D. Onco Centre.
“With the 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 Delnaz J. Dhabhar, MD, Physician and Palliative Care Expert, B.N.D. Onco Centre. The rising surge in oral cancer cases is an urgent call for immediate public awareness, early detection, and preventive action. The causes of oral cancer include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and Human Papillomavirus (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. The “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” campaign will help with the timely detection and management of oral cancer.
Reference:
1: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9379211/
