Silent culprit wreaks havoc in India – Firstpost

Oral cancer, a sinister disease that silently wreaks havoc in the oral cavity, is becoming an imminent threat across the globe. The situation is particularly alarming in India, where it is the most common form of cancer among men. India is also the country with the highest prevalence of lip and oral cavity cancer in the world.

According to the latest data from GLOBOCAN 2022, in India, the incidence of oral cancer is 143,759, a figure that is expected to double by 2050, raising concerns about the well-being of individuals, families and communities. The mortality rates due to oral cancer in India are also alarming, with a projected increase from 20,359.7 deaths in 2022 to 147,300 deaths by 2050. These statistics underscore the urgent need for action and support. The global incidence of oral cancer was 389,800 in 2022, a figure that is also expected to double by 2025, highlighting that this is a global challenge requiring collective action.

Behind these statistics are the heartbreaking stories of individuals and families grappling with the devastating impact of this disease. The effects of oral cancer go far beyond the physical suffering endured by patients. The emotional strain, financial burdens and shattered dreams that come with this disease are immeasurable. In a study conducted by Tata Memorial Hospital, it was estimated that premature deaths due to oral cancer cost India a staggering $5.6 billion in lost productivity in 2022. One of the key findings stated that 91% of deaths or terminal stages were among patients with a median age of 41.5 years. The monetary value of the losses for men was over Rs. 57 lakhs and for women Rs. 71 lakhs. This loss affects the economy and tears at the very fabric of families, pushing them into the depths of poverty.

Chronic tobacco use is the leading cause of oral cancer, accounting for 90% of cases. India is the worst affected country, with about 200,000 deaths annually due to smokeless tobacco products. Shockingly, over 30% of Indians, including 14.6% of children, use tobacco. This could also be a contributing factor to the occurrence of oral cancer in a younger population in our outpatient departments, some of whom are as young as 20 years old.

Under the aegis of Tata Cancer Care Foundation and Tata Trusts, Ranchi Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (RCHRC) is emphasizing the importance of preventive measures through a school-based initiative. In line with the National Tobacco Control Programme, RCHRC is creating awareness among school students about the dangers of tobacco and the laws under the Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). Till date, RCHRC has sensitized over 28,000 youth about the dangers of tobacco consumption.

One of the challenges of fighting oral cancer is that it progresses silently in its early stages, often without noticeable symptoms. It is imperative to see a doctor if the ulcer persists for more than two to three weeks. Additionally, white or red patches in the mouth, called leukoplakia and erythroplakia, can indicate precancerous conditions that require immediate evaluation. Early detection through regular checkups, which can be as simple as a thorough examination in good lighting, can significantly improve prognosis and treatment outcomes.

There are several misconceptions and myths surrounding cancer, especially regarding biopsies, that prevent prompt diagnosis and treatment. It is essential to address these misconceptions. Biopsies are safe and necessary for accurate diagnosis, contrary to the belief that they promote the spread of cancer. A unified effort by government agencies and medical associations to dispel these misconceptions is essential to encourage patients to seek necessary treatments. While oral cancer can indeed be successfully treated, it is important to understand that no treatment can guarantee a 100% cure rate. However, early-stage cancers have a promising prognosis of about 90%, which underscores the importance of awareness and early detection to save lives. The crucial step is to seek prompt medical attention and not be fooled by those who falsely claim that they are 100% curable.

Cancer patients not only face physical suffering, they also bear the burden of social stigma. These patients are often judged by the community and neglected by their own. Most of the time, underprivileged patients cannot even afford an autorickshaw, let alone travel comfortably to distant towns for treatment, resulting in exorbitant expenses. While the establishment of cancer centres, like the RCHRC in Ranchi, is commendable, there is an urgent need to expand these facilities to peripheral areas. By adopting new surgical techniques and treating cancer in its early stages, we can allay the fears of disfigurement and functional impairment that deter some patients from seeking treatment.

Oral cancer prevention involves awareness, regulation of tobacco use and education of children. Health systems need to prepare for the increase in cases by increasing their capacities, while rehabilitation services need to be improved. Comprehensive care is essential for the quality of life of patients. Collaboration between government, health professionals and society is crucial in the fight against oral cancer. By promoting awareness, dispelling myths, promoting early detection and supporting rehabilitation and prevention, we can protect countless lives and families from the devastating effects of oral cancer in India.