By - Dr. Devendra Chaukar, Senior Director - Head & Neck Oncology, Institute of Cancer Care, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai
Guwahati- Oral cancer is among
the most common cancers in India—ranking among the leading cancers in men and
the third most common in women—making it a major public health concern,
especially for cities like Guwahati. The steadily rising numbers represent
families and communities, including those in Guwahati, whose lives are changed
forever by a disease that is often preventable and, if detected early, highly
treatable.
The primary risk
factors for oral cancer are well known: tobacco in any form—smoked or
chewed—areca nut (supari), excessive alcohol intake and poor oral hygiene. Over
time, these irritants damage the lining of the mouth, tongue and throat,
increasing the risk of abnormal cell changes that may progress to cancer.
Unlike some of the
other anatomical regions, changes in the mouth are easily visible and careful
vigilance can help detect oral cancer early. Yet nearly 70% of patients present
with advanced disease. Many delay expert care due to fear of diagnosis and treatment
or a sheer lack of awareness about warning signs. Hence individuals with a red
or white patch in the mouth, a non-healing ulcer lasting more than 7–15 days, a
lump or swelling in the mouth or neck, an ill-fitting tooth or dentures,
unexplained bleeding from the mouth, change in voice or persistent fatigue or
weight loss should seek immediate expert care for optimal treatment.
The difference between
early and late diagnosis is often the difference between cure and complexity.
Early-stage oral cancer can be effectively treated and, in many cases,
completely cured, with surgery or radiation therapy achieving cure rates of up
to 90%. Even in advanced stages, progress in surgical, plastic and
reconstructive techniques allows specialists not only to remove the tumour but
also to restore key functions such as speech and swallowing, helping patients
return to their daily lives with a good quality of life.
To support early diagnosis and comprehensive care, expert cancer specialists from Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, have been now conducting a dedicated monthly cancer OPD in Guwahati. Residents can visit Trinitas Medharbor Superspeciality Healthcare & Diagnostics, VIP Rd, Six Mile on the 3rd Friday every month from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM to seek timely oral examinations, expert opinions and structured treatment planning close to home, so that potential problems are identified and addressed before they become life-threatening.
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