By Shyam Sundar Vattam
Mysuru
Bharath Hospital & Institute of Oncology, in partnership with Merck Specialities Private Limited, has launched a nationwide campaign titled “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” (#ActAgainstOralCancer) to mark World No Tobacco Day. The campaign urges individuals to perform a simple self-check in front of a mirror to spot early warning signs of oral cancer.
The initiative encourages people to take just two minutes monthly to look for symptoms such as white or red patches, persistent ulcers, swelling, voice changes, or unexplained bleeding. Strategic placement of mirrors in hospital waiting areas aims to boost awareness and promote regular self-examinations among patients and visitors.
At the launch, several experts including Dr. Y S Madhavi, Dr. Vijay Kumar M, Dr. Srinivas KG, Dr. Vinay Kumar Muttagi, Dr. Raxith Sringeri, Dr. Abhilash GH, and COO Gowtham Dhamerla endorsed the campaign. They highlighted the rising incidence of oral cancer in India, with nearly 2 lakh new head and neck cancer cases annually, 60–70% diagnosed at advanced stages.
Dr. Madhavi emphasized that early detection through regular self-examination could save lives by enabling timely treatment. Dr. Vijay Kumar noted that awareness and early diagnosis are crucial to improve survival rates, while Dr. Srinivas stressed the need to not ignore early signs like non-healing sores or voice changes.
Radiation oncologist Dr. Vinay Kumar said early detection increases the success of treatment. Dr. Raxith urged monthly checks, calling the mirror a “powerful ally” in identifying cancer early. Dr. Abhilash reinforced the campaign’s goal to simplify cancer prevention by empowering individuals to take control of their health.
This campaign is a timely step toward combating oral cancer through awareness and early action, potentially saving countless lives across the country.