Shedding light on oral cancer: A global perspective for awareness month

April is also the Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time when facts surrounding this often-overlooked disease are brought to light. From the bustling cities to the remote corners of the world, oral cancer remains a pervasive threat to public health.
The global insights into the scenario, backed by data from the World Health Organization (WHO), bring the spotlight on the need for heightened awareness and action.

Global burden
The WHO paints a stark picture of oral cancer's global impact. Annually, approximately 6.57 lakh new cases are diagnosed, with mortality rates surpassing 3.30 lakh. While incidence rates vary across regions, no corner of the world is immune to its reach. From North America to Southeast Asia, oral cancer exacts a heavy toll.

Regional variations
Regional disparities in oral cancer prevalence underscore the complex interplay of cultural, socioeconomic, and environmental factors. In high-income countries, tobacco and alcohol consumption are primary drivers of oral cancer incidence, while in low- and middle-income countries, including India, cultural practices such as betel quid chewing and smokeless tobacco use contribute significantly to the disease burden.

Emerging trends
Recent years have witnessed a concerning shift in oral cancer epidemiology, with an increasing incidence among younger individuals and non-traditional risk groups. Changing patterns of tobacco use, including the rising popularity of e-cigarettes, and the interplay of genetic and environmental factors underscore the dynamic nature of this disease.

Impact of tobacco
Tobacco remains the single most significant risk factor for oral cancer. According to WHO data, tobacco use is responsible for up to 90 per cent of oral cancer cases worldwide. Whether smoked or smokeless, tobacco products expose users to a potent cocktail of carcinogens, predisposing them to a myriad of health complications, including oral cancer.

Alarming trends in India
India stands at the epicenter of the global oral cancer epidemic. With over 75,000 new cases reported annually, the country grapples with one of the highest burdens of oral cancer worldwide. The pervasive use of smokeless tobacco products, coupled with cultural norms such as betel quid chewing, exacerbates the crisis, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services is limited.

Preventive imperatives
Prevention lies at the heart of the battle against oral cancer. Comprehensive tobacco control measures, including taxation, advertising bans, and smoke-free policies, are proven strategies for reducing oral cancer incidence. Additionally, vaccination against high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and early detection through routine screenings offer critical avenues for intervention.

Community empowerment
Community engagement is paramount in driving sustained change. By fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, policymakers, educators, and grassroots organizations, we can amplify awareness efforts, promote healthy behaviors, and facilitate access to screening and treatment services.

Towards a brighter future
As we unite in observing the Oral Cancer Awareness Month, let us harness the power of collective action to confront this formidable foe. By leveraging data-driven insights, advocating for evidence-based policies, and championing grassroots initiatives, we can illuminate the path towards a future where oral cancer is no longer a shadow lurking in the darkness, but a preventable and treatable condition. Together, let us strive for a world where every voice is heard, every life is valued, and every mouth is free from the specter of oral cancer.

Technology for early detection
In the digital age, technology offers promising avenues for early detection and diagnosis. From artificial intelligence-powered screening tools to smartphone-based applications for self-examination, innovative solutions are revolutionizing oral cancer detection. By leveraging these advancements, we can enhance accessibility, accuracy, and efficiency in identifying suspicious lesions, particularly in resource-constrained settings.

Empowering healthcare systems
Strengthening healthcare systems is fundamental to addressing the oral cancer burden effectively. Investing in infrastructure, training healthcare professionals, and ensuring equitable access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment services are essential steps towards reducing disparities in oral cancer outcomes. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international partners are crucial for building resilient healthcare systems that can tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by oral cancer.

Education as a catalyst for change
Education lies at the heart of oral cancer prevention and control efforts. By imparting knowledge about risk factors, early warning signs, and preventive measures, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. School-based programs, community workshops, and public awareness campaigns play a pivotal role in disseminating critical information and dispelling myths surrounding oral cancer.

Addressing stigma
The stigma associated with oral cancer can have profound psychosocial implications for patients and their families. From social ostracisation to emotional distress, the psychosocial impact of oral cancer extends far beyond physical health. Cultivating empathy, fostering supportive environments, and providing access to counseling and support groups are integral components of holistic care for individuals affected by oral cancer.

A call to action
As Oral Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, let us heed the call to action. By amplifying our collective voice, mobilizing resources, and galvanizing support, we can effect tangible change in the fight against oral cancer. From policy advocacy to community outreach, each of us has a role to play in shaping a future where oral cancer is no longer a silent menace but a conquerable adversary.

In conclusion, Oral Cancer Awareness Month serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to confront the challenges posed by this complex disease. By elevating awareness, promoting prevention, supporting early detection, and advancing treatment modalities, we can pave the way towards a world where oral cancer no longer exacts a devastating toll on individuals, families, and communities. As we stand on the cusp of a new era in oral cancer prevention and control, let us unite in our commitment to eradicating this insidious disease once and for all.
(Dr Deepthi TR is Specialist in Early cancer Detection and Prevention, Oncure Preventive and Healthcare Centre Kannur)