Oral cancer is the most common cancer in India, mainly affecting men. It accounts for more than 50% of oral cancer cases worldwide, according to the World Cancer Research Fund. Over five people die every hour in India due to oral cancer. This makes it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the country.
The major risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco (both smoked and smokeless), areca nut, alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene. Most cases in India are diagnosed at Stage III or IV, which decreases the chances of survival and raises treatment costs. Regular oral examinations and early detection of malignant lesions can provide up to a 90% chance of survival after treatment. This highlights the importance of increasing public awareness.
Unfortunately, the Report on National Tobacco Consumption in India shows that about 29% of adults aged 15 and older use tobacco, which can lead to oral cancer. However, only 1% of adults are screened for oral cancer (NFHS 2019-2021). This indicates a significant gap between high-risk exposure and the very low rates of oral cancer screening. There is an urgent need for community-based oral cancer screening and awareness programs to help reduce preventable illness and death in India.
These statistics indicates the urgent need to include routine oral screening in primary health care at least in vulnerable population to combat the silent burden of oral cancer.
MBH/AB