Oral Cancer: A Growing Concern in India

Oral cancer, a major type of head-and-neck cancer, is becoming an increasingly serious health issue in India. Recent data reveals nearly 77,000 new cases and over 52,000 deaths in the country this year alone.

The disease most commonly strikes men over the age of 40, though younger individuals are not immune. Lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role in its development.

Tobacco use—whether smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco—remains the leading cause. In many parts of India, smokeless tobacco products are widely available and socially accepted, making the problem harder to control.

Alcohol consumption is another major risk factor. When combined with tobacco use, the chances of developing oral cancer increase dramatically. The harmful effects are compounded over years of regular use.

Betel-nut chewing, a long-standing cultural practice in several Indian communities, also contributes to the risk. Betel nut contains carcinogenic compounds that can damage the lining of the mouth and lead to cancerous changes.

Prolonged exposure to sunlight, particularly for individuals working outdoors, can increase the risk of lip cancer. Farmers, construction workers, and street vendors are among those more vulnerable to this form.

Early detection is critical for successful treatment, but many cases in India are diagnosed at advanced stages. This is often due to low awareness, limited access to healthcare, and reluctance to seek medical help for early symptoms like mouth sores or persistent ulcers.

Public health campaigns focusing on education, regular screenings, and discouraging tobacco, alcohol, and betel-nut use are essential to combat the rise in oral cancer. With timely prevention and intervention, many lives can be saved from this largely preventable disease.