Bhubaneswar (Odisha Tazanews) :- In a timely and impactful initiative, Utkal Hospital, in association with Merck Specialities Private Limited has launched the “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” 2 campaign with the hashtag #ActAgainstOralCancer on the note of World No Tobacco Day. 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. During the launch of the campaign Dr. Sanjib Kumar Mishra, Director & Senior Consultant Radiation Oncology, Dr. Chinmaya Kumar Pani, Consultant – Medical Oncology ‘BMT, Dr. Sanjaya Kumar Mishra, Director ‘ Senior Consultant – Radiation Oncology, and medical staff, were present. India is the world’s capital of Head and neck cancer 3 . Every year, around 2 lakhpatientsarenew lydiagnosedwith Headandneckcancer, whichis thehighest 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. 4 “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,” said Dr. Sanjib Kumar Mishra, Director & Senior Consultant Radiation Oncology, Utkal Hospital. “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 them out as early check equals to better chances of cure,” said Dr. Chinmaya Kumar Pani, Consultant – Medical Oncology & BMT, Utkal Hospital.
“Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of head and neck cancers by targeting tumors precisely while preserving surrounding healthy tissues. Early-stage detection combined with timely radiation treatment significantly improves outcomes. We are committed to delivering advanced, patient-centered cancer care,” said Dr. Sanjaya Kumar Mishra, Director & Senior Consultant – Radiation Oncology, Utkal Hospital.
