Oral cancer, a type of head-and-neck cancer, has emerged as a significant public health concern in India. With recent statistics revealing approximately 77,000 new cases and over 52,000 related deaths in a single year, the country now accounts for a substantial share of the global burden of oral cancer. Despite being preventable and treatable when detected early, the disease continues to claim thousands of lives annually due to late diagnosis, lack of awareness, and limited access to timely healthcare in many regions.
The majority of oral cancer cases in India occur in men over the age of 40. This demographic is particularly vulnerable due to widespread exposure to high-risk habits such as tobacco consumption, excessive alcohol intake, and the use of betel-nut products. Chewing tobacco and areca nut (commonly used in products like gutkha and pan masala) is culturally accepted in many communities, often starting in adolescence and continuing for decades. These substances are known carcinogens and play a direct role in the development of lesions in the oral cavity, which can turn cancerous over time.
Another significant contributor to the rising incidence of oral cancer is alcohol consumption, particularly when combined with tobacco use. Studies show that the combination of smoking and drinking dramatically increases the risk of developing mouth cancer, as these substances can damage the delicate tissues of the mouth and impair the body’s ability to repair itself. In rural areas, where health education is limited, the dangers of these habits are often not fully understood, and preventive measures are rarely taken until symptoms become severe.
Sun exposure, particularly to the lips, is another factor that contributes to oral cancer, although to a lesser extent than tobacco or alcohol. People who work outdoors, such as farmers, laborers, and street vendors, are especially at risk. Prolonged and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to lip cancer, a form of oral cancer that is frequently overlooked in public health discussions. Protective measures, such as using lip balms with SPF and wearing hats, are simple yet underutilized preventive strategies.
Early symptoms of oral cancer often go unnoticed or are mistaken for less serious issues. These may include persistent mouth ulcers, difficulty in chewing or swallowing, white or red patches inside the mouth, and unexplained bleeding or numbness. Unfortunately, due to a lack of awareness and limited access to regular dental or medical checkups, many individuals ignore these warning signs until the disease reaches an advanced stage. At that point, treatment options become more complex, expensive, and less effective, contributing to high mortality rates.
Addressing the oral cancer crisis in India requires a multi-pronged approach. Public health campaigns aimed at discouraging the use of tobacco, betel nut, and alcohol need to be intensified, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Schools, workplaces, and community centers can serve as platforms for awareness programs. In addition, routine oral cancer screenings should be made accessible and affordable, especially for high-risk groups. Training healthcare providers to recognize early signs of oral cancer and refer patients promptly can also play a vital role in improving early detection rates. Ultimately, reducing the incidence and mortality of oral cancer in India will depend on a sustained national effort that combines education, prevention, early diagnosis, and access to quality treatment.
