Oral (mouth) cancer, classified under head-and-neck cancers, continues to be a major health concern in India. Recent statistics show approximately 77,000 new cases and over 52,000 related deaths this year alone.
The disease most often affects men over 40. Key risk factors include tobacco use (smoking or chewing), alcohol, betel-nut products, and prolonged sun exposure to the lips.
Oral cancers are often diagnosed late, after spreading to neck lymph nodes—drastically lowering survival rates. However, if caught early, the chances of a cure increase significantly.
Principal areas affected include the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, and the floor of the mouth. Warning signs include persistent sores, red or white patches, unexplained lumps, bleeding, numbness, or trouble swallowing or chewing.