Oral Cancer Cases on the Rise: Experts Call for Early Detection and Awareness at Bangalore CDE Programme
Bangalore, February 14: With India witnessing a alarming surge in oral cancer cases among young adults, leading oncologists and dental surgeons convened at Dayanand Sagar College of Dental Sciences in Bangalore for a Continuing Dental Education (CDE) programme on “Oral Oncology & Recent Advances,” emphasizing the critical role of early detection and prevention in combating the disease.
The programme, held on February 14, witnessed participation from over 150 delegates, including young budding surgeons and postgraduates, who gathered to hear from some of the country’s most distinguished experts in oral oncology.
“Oral Cancer is Preventable”: Experts Stress on Early Intervention
Delivering the keynote address on “Oral Cancer at a Glance,” Dr. Nadimul Hoda, Head of the Department of Oral Oncology at Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, Bangalore, and a nationally recognized oral cancer surgeon, painted a concerning picture of the disease’s trajectory in India.
“The high rise of oral cancer cases in the country is alarming. Many youngsters are falling prey to gutka and other tobacco products, landing themselves with a life-threatening diagnosis,” Dr. Hoda stated. “Due to lack of awareness, absence of early detection, and inadequate proper treatment, countless lives are being lost unnecessarily.”
Dr. Hoda stressed that oral cancer remains one of the most preventable forms of cancer, with tobacco and related products being the primary causative agents. He highlighted the pivotal role dental surgeons play on the frontlines of this battle.
“The dental surgeon is in a unique position to make a life-saving difference. A thorough examination of the oral cavity can identify potentially malignant lesions such as Leukoplakia, Erythroplakia, and oral submucous fibrosis. If treatment is provided at this pre-cancerous stage, patients can be saved from the horrors of full-blown oral cancer,” he explained.
He detailed the three main modalities of oral cancer treatment—Surgery, Radiotherapy, and Chemotherapy—noting that surgery remains the first choice. “If patients present themselves in Stage 1 or Stage 2, the chances of a cure are exceptionally high. Unfortunately, the majority still arrive in Stage 3 or Stage 4 due to the lack of early detection,” Dr. Hoda lamented.
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The Mentor-Mentee Journey: A Testament to Dedication
In a heartfelt segment of his address, Dr. Hoda shared his personal journey, tracing his career from a resident surgeon to heading the department at one of India’s premier regional cancer centres, Kidwai Memorial Institute. He credited this trajectory to his teacher and mentor, Dr. M. Vijaya Kumar, who was present as the Chief Guest of the programme.
“I joined Kidwai as a resident surgeon under Dr. M. Vijaya Kumar, who was then heading the Department of Oral Oncology. Today, I am privileged to head the same department, and this journey over the last 25 years would not have been possible without his guidance,” Dr. Hoda said, expressing gratitude to the Almighty, his parents, and his mentor. He advised the young students in attendance to always remember their parents and teachers, and spoke passionately about the need for “dedication, determination, and devotion” in their careers. He urged aspiring oral cancer surgeons to cultivate “passion, compassion, and empathy” in their practice.
University’s Outreach and Prevention Initiatives
Dr. M. Vijaya Kumar, Pro-Chancellor of Yenepoya University, Mangalore, and an internationally renowned cancer surgeon, served as the Chief Guest of the programme. In his address, he shared his extensive experience in the prevention of oral cancer and detailed the various outreach programmes undertaken by Yenepoya University.
He spoke in detail about the university’s initiatives focused on the early detection of oral cancer and elaborated on the various research projects he has spearheaded to combat the disease at the community level. His presence underscored the importance of academic institutions in driving public health initiatives.
Comprehensive Updates on Treatment Modalities
The CDE programme also featured a series of expert lectures covering the full spectrum of oral cancer care. Dr. Vijay Pillai, Head & Neck specialist from Narayana Health, discussed recent advancements in the treatment of oral cancer, drawing upon various studies and publications.
Dr. Vijetha from Narayana Health elaborated on the evolving role of Radiotherapy in managing oral cancer, while Dr. Mazumdar provided insights into the role of Chemotherapy, offering delegates a comprehensive overview of current multi-disciplinary treatment protocols.
The event was organized under the leadership of Dr. Hemant Maddiah, Principal of the college, with key organizational roles played by Dr. Shobha, Professor & HOD of OMFS, Dr. Vinod Rangan, and Dr. Girish Gowda, Secretary of the AOMSI State Chapter, who served as the Organizing Secretary. Faculties including Dr. Vijay Pillai, Dr. Vijetha, and Dr. Mazumdar were also present, contributing to the programme’s success in educating the next generation of dental surgeons on the critical importance of oral cancer awareness and early detection.
Key Q & A on Oral Cancer
With Dr. Nadimul Hoda (HOD, Oral Oncology, Kidwai Memorial Institute)
Q: India is seeing a sharp rise in oral cancer cases, particularly among the youth. What is the primary driver behind this trend?
Dr. Hoda: The primary driver is unequivocally the widespread consumption of tobacco and related products like Gutka. There is a severe lack of awareness among youngsters about the devastating consequences. They are falling prey to addiction early, and without realizing it, they are landing themselves with a life-threatening diagnosis.
Q: You mentioned the “pivotal role” of the dental surgeon. How can a general dentist actually prevent cancer?
Dr. Hoda: Dental surgeons are the first line of defense. During routine check-ups, they must conduct a thorough examination of the entire oral cavity. They are trained to identify potentially malignant lesions and conditions—like Leukoplakia, Erythroplakia, and Oral Submucous Fibrosis. If they spot these pre-cancerous signs and refer the patient for immediate treatment, they can literally save that patient from developing full-blown oral cancer.
With Dr. M. Vijaya Kumar (Pro-Chancellor, Yenopoya University)
Q: Beyond clinical treatment, what is the role of academic institutions like Yenopoya University in fighting this epidemic?
Dr. Vijaya Kumar: Universities have a massive role to play in community outreach. At Yenopoya, we have taken up numerous outreach programmes specifically focused on the early detection of oral cancer. We are taking research and awareness directly to the masses, trying to catch the disease at a stage where it can be managed effectively. Education and prevention must go hand-in-hand with treatment.
For the Young Surgeons & Students
Q: You transitioned from being a resident under Dr. Vijaya Kumar to heading the same department at Kidwai. What is your advice to a young surgeon aspiring to specialize in oral oncology?
Dr. Nadimul Hoda: My advice is to remember three things: Dedication, Determination, and Devotion. But more than technical skill, I tell youngsters to cultivate Passion, Compassion, and Empathy. This is a difficult field. You must be willing to undergo rigorous training, and always, always remember the guidance of your parents and your teachers. They are the ones who shape your career.
Q: What is the one thing budding surgeons should keep in mind while examining a patient?
Dr. Nadimul Hoda: Do not rush. A thorough examination of the oral cavity is non-negotiable. Look for the subtle signs. That five minutes you spend looking for lesions could be the five minutes that saves a patient from a major mandibulectomy or maxillectomy later in life.
