Combating the Oral Cancer Surge: D.Y. Patil Dental College Hosts Expert-Led ONCOEDGE Programme
PUNE, India – A timely continuing dental education (CDE) programme, ‘ONCOEDGE 2025’, was convened at D.Y. Patil Dental College on September 20, 2025, to equip a new generation of oral surgeons with the skills and knowledge to tackle India’s growing oral cancer crisis. The event brought together over 80 postgraduate students, delegates, and senior faculty members for an intensive session led by a leading national expert.
The programme featured a keynote address by Dr. Nadimul Hoda, a prominent figure in the field and Head of the Department of Oral Oncology at Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology. Dr. Hoda delivered a comprehensive lecture titled “Oral Oncology at a Glance and Surgical Management of Oral Cancer,” providing a stark overview of the current landscape and the path forward.
A Call to Action Against Rising Cases
In his address, Dr. Hoda highlighted a disturbing trend: the increasing incidence of oral cancer among India’s youth, primarily linked to the consumption of Gutka and various forms of tobacco. He emphasized the critical role of dental professionals as the first line of defense.
“Every patient who walks into a dental clinic represents an opportunity for early detection,” Dr. Hoda stated. He urged the attending surgeons to make a thorough oral cavity examination a non-negotiable part of every consultation. “Asking about tobacco use is not just a formality; it is a chance to educate patients about the ill effects and how oral cancer can devastate not just an individual, but an entire family. An early detection truly saves lives.”
The Surgeon’s Dual Role: Skill and Compassion
Dr. Hoda detailed the complexities of oral cancer surgery, underscoring that technical prowess must be matched by profound humanity. He described the ideal cancer surgeon as both a skilled technician and a philosopher, treating patients with empathy and a holistic approach.
“A cancer surgeon should treat every patient with passion and compassion,” he advised the aspiring surgeons. “This field demands high skill and precise knowledge, but it also requires the dedication to manage complications and the humility to work as part of a team. Success hinges on the collaboration between the surgeon, radiotherapist, chemotherapist, and other specialties.”
He further motivated postgraduates considering a career in oncology to be prepared for a challenging yet deeply rewarding journey. “When a patient reports at an early stage, surgery alone or combined treatment can lead to a cure. However, late-stage presentation drastically reduces survival rates despite our best efforts. This is why your role is so vital,” he added.
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Acknowledging Mentorship and Leadership
The session was inaugurated by Dr. Brig S.K. Roy Choudhry, who welcomed Dr. Hoda to the event. Dr. B.M. Rudagi, Professor and Head of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at D.Y. Patil Dental College and the Organising Chairman of the programme, was also present to oversee the proceedings. Dr. Hoda was presented with a certificate of appreciation for his contributions.
Concluding his lecture, Dr. Nadimul Hoda paid a heartfelt tribute to his mentor, Dr. M. Vijaya Kumar, a renowned cancer surgeon, former Director of Kidwai, and current Vice-Chancellor of Yenepoya University, Mangalore. “It is the guidance and teachings of mentors like Dr. Kumar that shape careers and, in turn, the future of patient care,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of knowledge transfer in the medical community.
The ONCOEDGE 2025 programme stands as a significant step towards strengthening India’s healthcare response to oral cancer, empowering its future surgeons with both the technical expertise and the human touch needed to make a difference.
Key Quotes
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On Early Detection: “An early detection of oral cancer truly saves lives. Asking about tobacco use is a chance to educate patients about how this disease can devastate an entire family.” – Dr. Nadimul Hoda
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On the Surgeon’s Role: “A cancer surgeon must treat every patient with passion and compassion. We must be both skilled technicians and philosophers, approaching care with empathy.” – Dr. Nadimul Hoda
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On Career Dedication: “This field demands high skill and precise knowledge. Young surgeons must be dedicated and prepared to work as part of a team, as success hinges on collaboration.” – Dr. Nadimul Hoda
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On Mentorship: “It is the guidance of mentors like Dr. Vijaya Kumar that shapes careers and, in turn, the future of patient care.” – Dr. Nadimul Hoda
Q & A (Facts)
Q: What is the most critical message for dental professionals today regarding oral cancer?
A: The most critical message is vigilance. Every dental check-up is a missed opportunity if we are not conducting a thorough oral examination and asking about tobacco habits. Dentists and oral surgeons are on the front lines; we are often the first to see early signs. This responsibility is key to changing outcomes.
Q: You emphasized treating patients with “compassion and passion.” Why is this so important in oncology?
A: Cancer treatment is not just about removing a tumor. It is a journey that tests the human spirit. A surgeon must be a healer in the truest sense—providing not just technical skill but also hope, empathy, and holistic support. This compassionate approach is integral to the healing process.
Q: What is your advice for a young postgraduate considering a career in oral cancer surgery?
A: Be prepared for a demanding but immensely rewarding path. It requires unwavering dedication, a commitment to lifelong learning, and the resilience to manage complications. Most importantly, remember that you are entering a field where your work directly saves lives and supports families through their most challenging times. There is no greater motivation.
