New Delhi: Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC), located in Rohini, New Delhi, has launched the "Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection" campaign with the hashtag #ActAgainstOralCancer. This initiative aims to address the alarming rise in oral cancer cases by encouraging individuals to perform a quick self-check using mirrors, which are readily available. The campaign’s message is: Look, Feel, and Act.
According to the institute, mirror checks can help identify early signs of oral cancer, potentially enabling timely treatment. As part of the initiative, mirrors will be placed in hospital waiting areas to encourage visitors to perform self-checks.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar Rawal, Medical Director at RGCIRC, stated, "Head and neck cancer is very common in India. These types of cancers are lifestyle-related, and linked to the rampant use of tobacco and alcohol in society. The treatment of this cancer, especially when detected early, is much more effective."
Dr. A.K. Dewan, Director of Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC, added, "Gutkha, smoking, alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and certain viral infections, especially Human Papillomavirus (HPV), are key risk factors contributing to the rising incidence of throat cancers."
Dr. Mudit Agarwal, Unit Head & Senior Consultant at Head & Neck Oncology at RGCIRC, emphasized, "There should be awareness on the common early signs and symptoms of oral cancers like white patches, red patches, referred ear pain, and nonhealing ulcers."
Published On May 7, 2025 at 04:10 PM IST
