Ahmedabad, May 30, 2025: Tobacco use is no longer a personal habit—it’s a national health crisis. India s for nearly one-third of global oral cancer cases, with 77,000 new diagnoses and 52,000 deaths annually. The survival rate stands at just 50%, significantly lower than in developed countries (link). This alarming trend is compounded by rising tobacco consumption across both urban and rural India, as highlighted by the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (2022–23) (Link), which noted increased spending on paan, tobacco, and other intoxicants.
Oral Cancer in Gujarat
According to a report by the ICMR – National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research, the top two cancer sites among males in Gujarat are mouth (21.5%) and tongue (11.5%). In females, mouth (5%) and tongue (4.4%) are the fourth and fifth leading cancer sites, respectively.
Tobacco Use in Gujarat
Nearly one-fourth of the adult population (aged 15 and above) in Gujarat uses tobacco in some form, with usage significantly higher among men (38.7%) than women (10.4%). Tobacco use is linked to 56.1% of cancer sites in men and 18.6% in women. Among men, the most commonly affected tobacco-related cancer sites are the mouth (38%), tongue (21%), and lungs (15%). In women, the mouth (27%), tongue (24%), and lungs (15%) are the most impacted.
On of World No Tobacco Day, Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) has launched #OraLife, a proactive screening initiative focused on the early detection of oral cancer. The program emphasizes public awareness, routine screening, and targeted intervention particularly for high-risk individuals, including tobacco s, alcohol consumers, those with HPV-16 infection, and people with prior oral lesions.
As part of this initiative, ACC has partnered with the Isha Foundation to provide holistic for individuals seeking to overcome tobacco addiction. This collaboration integrates physical health interventions with mental and emotional wellness .
Dr M. Laxmidhar, Senior Consultant & Director, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, said, “The burden of oral cancer in Gujarat is worryingly high. Alarmingly, we’re seeing younger individuals affected, unlike other regions where cases are more common among middle-aged adults. This shift aligns with the increasing use of smokeless tobacco. Sadly, most cases are detected at Stage 3 or 4, when outcomes are more complicated. Early screening is simple, effective, and can significantly improve survival.”
“Tobacco s are six to seven times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-s. Oral cancer is one of the few cancers that can be detected early through a simple oral examination. With this program, our goal is to detect cases early—before it’s too late,” said Dr V.R.N. Vijaykumar, Surgical Oncologist, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad.
Oral cancer is the most common cancer among Indian men and is rising steadily among women. Incidence rates vary widely across states: West Bengal reports the highest, while Kerala sees the lowest. Maharashtra, Ahmedabad Urban, and Meghalaya also report alarmingly high figures—largely driven by tobacco use. Chennai-based studies have identified an increase in cancers of the tongue base and floor of the mouth, sites known for high metastatic potential. The buccal mucosa remains the most frequently affected site nationwide. Notably, smokeless tobacco use is rising among women, contributing to a narrowing gender gap in incidence rates. (Link)
Risk factors—such as the combined use of smokeless tobacco, betel quid, and alcohol—are especially prevalent in underserved communities with limited access to preventive care. The disease is increasingly affecting individuals aged 31–50, with poor nutrition further exacerbating the risk.
Dr Rajesh Vishwakarma, Consultant ENT & Cochlear Implant Surgeon & Head – Dept. of ENT & Head-Neck Surgery, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, stated, “Our objective is to foster a culture of preventive healthcare. Oral cancer is highly treatable when detected early. We urge everyone over 30, especially tobacco s to undergo screening.”
The #OraLife, the Oral Cancer Screening Program, involves a comprehensive visual and tactile oral examination conducted by trained medical oncologists and head & neck surgeons. It aims to identify early warning signs such as persistent ulcers, red or white patches, lumps, and non-healing sores—many of which are often overlooked.
Dr. Chirag Shah, Dentist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad said, “We strongly encourage regular dental checkups—not just for cavities, but because they play a crucial role in detecting silent threats like oral cancer. Early detection during a routine visit can be life-saving.”
To mental and emotional recovery, Apollo has teamed up with the Isha Foundation to incorporate spiritual well-being into its tobacco cessation efforts. As part of this, individuals will have access to a simple yet effective 7-minute guided meditation led by Sadhguru.
“Miracle of Mind” is a free meditation app that empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being. With over 2 million s, the app features guided meditations, streak tracking, personalized messages, and motivational rewards,” said Mr. Prerak Agrawal from Isha Foundation.
Cdr Jelson Kavalakkat, CEO, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, said, “This initiative represents Apollo’s leadership in holistic oncology care “Our mission goes beyond treatment—we aim to equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to take control of their health. Our collaboration with Isha Foundation is a testament to our belief in integrated care, where early detection and mental wellness are both critical pillars.”
In addition to the health burden, the initiative also addresses the financial and emotional toll of tobacco use. Research indicates that tobacco s spend over ₹1.1 lakh more on healthcare over their lifetime compared to non-s. The consequences extend beyond health—tobacco use reduces life expectancy, raises insurance s, limits claim payouts, and destabilizes families, particularly when primary earners are affected.
Through the #CutTheCost campaign, Apollo Cancer Centres calls on tobacco s to re-evaluate the true cost of their habits—not just in of health, but also financial security and emotional well-being. The campaign reinforces the value of early detection and long-term lifestyle change as the most powerful tools for prevention.