Delhi , May 30 , 2025: Tobacco consumption is no longer an individual habit , but has become a national health crisis. One-third of all oral cancer cases worldwide are from India , where it causes 77,000 new cases and 52,000 deaths annually . Its survival rate is only 50% , which is much lower than developed countries (link). This trend has increased alarmingly due to the increase in tobacco consumption in both cities and villages of India , which is clearly evident in the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey ( 2022-23) ( link). This survey has confirmed the increase in expenditure on paan , tobacco and other intoxicants.
On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day , Apollo Cancer Centers ( ACC) has launched a screening initiative called #OralLife , which focuses on early detection of oral cancer . The program seeks to create public awareness , regular screening and targeted interventions , particularly for people at high risk, including tobacco s , alcohol consumers , HPV-16 infected and those already suffering from oral lesions.
As part of this initiative , ACC has collaborated with Isha Foundation to provide holistic to individuals seeking to overcome tobacco addiction . The collaboration seeks to integrate mental and emotional wellness with physical health interventions to provide appropriate .
Dr. Gopal Kumar , Senior Consultant – Head & Neck Surgical Oncology , Apollo Cancer Centre , Delhi, said , ” Tobacco s are six to seven times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-tobacco s. Oral cancer is one cancer that can be detected early by a simple oral exam. Through this programme, we aim to identify oral cancer cases early – before it is too late. We aim to promote a culture of preventive healthcare. Oral cancer is curable if detected early. We urge everyone over the age of 30 , especially tobacco s, to get screened.”
Oral cancer is the most common cancer in Indian men and is also increasing in women. The incidence varies across states: West Bengal has the highest , while Kerala has the lowest. Maharashtra , urban Ahmedabad and Meghalaya also report high incidence rates – primarily due to tobacco use. Chennai-based studies show an increase in cancers of the tongue and floor of the mouth as these sites are more likely to metastasize. Buccal mucosa is affected in most oral cancer patients in the country. The gender gap in incidence rates is decreasing , particularly with the increase in smokeless tobacco use among women. ( Link )
Risk factors such as the combined use of smokeless tobacco , betel nut and alcohol are prevalent in underserved communities where people have limited access to preventive care. While the disease is increasingly affecting people in the age group of 31-50 years , the risk is also increasing due to poor nutrition.
# OralLife – An oral cancer screening program involves trained head and neck surgeons performing a detailed visual and palpation examination of the mouth to identify early warning signs such as ulcers , red or white patches , lumps , painless or non-healing lesions , which are often overlooked.
To ensure mental and emotional health benefits and to integrate spiritual well-being with your quit efforts , you will also receive a simple yet effective 7- minute guided meditation led by Sadhguru .
Isha Foundation has extended its through the Miracle of Mind app , a free meditation platform that empowers people to take charge of their own well-being. With over 2 million s , the app offers guided meditations , streak tracking , special messages, and motivational rewards, creating a ive environment for people on their journey to quit addiction and improve their mental health.
Dr Bipin Puri , Director Medical Services , Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals , said , ” This initiative reflects Apollo’s commitment to providing holistic oncology care. Our mission is not just to provide treatment , but to equip people with the tools and knowledge to take charge of their own health. Our collaboration with Isha Foundation is a testament to our belief in integrated care , where early detection and mental well-being are both important pillars.”
This initiative addresses the economic and emotional burden caused by tobacco use in addition to the health burden. #CutTheCost Through the campaign , Apollo Cancer Centers urges tobacco s to re-evaluate the true cost of their habits – not just in of health , but also in of financial security and emotional well-being. The campaign reinforces the importance of early detection and long-term lifestyle changes as the most powerful tools for cancer prevention.