Empowering Individuals Through the “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” Initiative
In a powerful step toward combating the rising incidence of oral cancer, Merck Specialities, in collaboration with top hospitals across India, has launched the “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” campaign under the hashtag #ActAgainstOralCancer. This nationwide initiative urges individuals to perform a quick, mirror-based self-check to spot early warning signs of oral cancer.
Encouraging Self-Examination: Feel, Look, Act
Healthcare experts are calling on the public to observe three critical actions:
- LOOK for white or red patches, ulcers that don’t heal, or unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
- FEEL for lumps, swelling, voice changes, or difficulty in swallowing.
- ACT by visiting a doctor immediately upon noticing symptoms.
By placing mirrors in hospital waiting areas, the campaign provides easy access for patients to perform this life-saving self-check in just two minutes.
Rising Incidence of Oral Cancer in India
According to Dr. Jeyhan Dhabhar, Consultant Medical Oncologist at B.N.D. Onco Centre, oral cancer is rapidly increasing in India, which already holds the grim title of head and neck cancer capital of the world. He highlighted that:
- Oral cancer includes cancers of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, nasopharynx, and larynx.
- Around 2 lakh new head and neck cancer cases are diagnosed annually in India.
- Over 65% of lip and oral cavity cancer cases present in advanced stages, reducing treatment success and survival rates.
“Unlike breast cancer, where self-examinations have become common practice, oral cancer awareness remains low. A quick two-minute monthly self-check could significantly increase early detection and survival,” Dr. Dhabhar emphasized.
The Power of Early Detection
Dr. Jimmy Mirani, Consultant Medical Oncologist at B.N.D. Onco Centre, reinforced the campaign’s core message:
“Early detection is the best prevention. A regular two-minute mirror check can help individuals identify suspicious symptoms and take immediate action.”
He encouraged individuals to:
- Perform monthly oral self-exams.
- Check for persistent symptoms like ulcers, loose teeth, hoarseness, or pain when swallowing.
- Consult a doctor promptly for early diagnosis and treatment.
Integrating Palliative Care for Holistic Support
Dr. Delnaz J. Dhabhar, MD, Physician and Palliative Care Expert, stressed the importance of early palliative care in managing oral cancer. She noted that:
- Early diagnosis using Oral Visual Inspection (OVI), biopsies, and self-examination is critical.
- Palliative care plays a vital role in pain relief, nutritional support, emotional well-being, and support with speech and swallowing.
“Early palliative intervention enhances quality of life and supports patients in making informed decisions throughout their treatment journey,” she said.
Addressing the Root Causes and Consequences
As per the press release, the campaign also sheds light on the key risk factors for oral cancer, including:
- Tobacco use (smoking and chewing)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
If detected late, oral cancer can lead to severe complications such as difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and breathing, and may spread to other body parts.
A Timely Call to Action
The “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” campaign turns a simple mirror into a life-saving tool, promoting proactive health behavior. By encouraging self-awareness and early action, Merck Specialities and its healthcare partners aim to improve outcomes, reduce complications, and help India respond to the growing oral cancer crisis.