Importance of Oral Cancer Screening in Delhi: A Crucial Step Toward Early Detection and Prevention
Oral cancer is a silent threat that often goes unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage. In India, where tobacco use—both smoking and smokeless forms—is widespread, oral cancer ranks among the top three types of cancer. For Delhi, a city marked by urban lifestyle pressures, increasing pollution, and prevalent tobacco consumption, the need for timely oral cancer screening has never been more urgent.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in the tissues of
the mouth or throat. This includes the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the
mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx. Early symptoms may be
painless and subtle, such as a persistent sore, patch, or lump in the mouth.
The good news? When detected early, oral cancer is highly
treatable.
Here’s why regular oral cancer screening is crucial,
especially in Delhi:
1. Early Detection Saves Lives
Oral cancer often progresses without noticeable symptoms in
the early stages. Regular screening helps identify precancerous conditions or
cancer in its initial phases, allowing for timely and more effective treatment.
Survival rates are significantly higher when oral cancer is diagnosed early.
2. High-Risk Population in Delhi
Delhi’s population has a higher risk due to:
- High
rates of tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Air
pollution and exposure to harmful chemicals
- Poor
dietary habits and stress-related lifestyle
- Rising
cases of HPV (Human Papillomavirus), a known cause of oral cancers
Given these risks, awareness and proactive screening in
Delhi can help reduce the disease burden.
3. Quick, Painless & Non-Invasive
An oral cancer screening is typically quick and
non-invasive. Dentists or specialists examine the mouth visually and may use
tools like special lights or dyes to detect abnormal tissues. It usually takes
just a few minutes but can have a lifetime impact.
4. Public Health Awareness Is Growing, But Needs Support
Government initiatives and private clinics in Delhi are
working to promote awareness. However, public participation remains low due to
fear, stigma, or lack of knowledge. Regular screenings can become a norm if
more people understand their benefits.
5. Affordable and Accessible in Delhi
Many hospitals, dental colleges, and clinics in Delhi offer
free or low-cost oral cancer screenings. With a wide range of healthcare
facilities available across the city—from AIIMS to neighborhood
clinics—accessibility is not a barrier, but awareness often is.
What to Expect During a Screening
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist or oral health
professional will:
- Examine
your face, neck, lips, and oral cavity
- Look
for asymmetries, swellings, lumps, or unusual patches
- May
recommend a biopsy if any suspicious lesion is found
Screenings are recommended annually, especially for people
over 40 or those with risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or
a family history of cancer.
Final Thoughts
Oral cancer screening in Delhi isn't just a medical
check-up—it’s a powerful tool for prevention and survival. With the city’s
population facing numerous lifestyle and environmental risk factors, it’s time
to prioritize oral health and make screenings a routine part of life.
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