Oral Cancer Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Act Early
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Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in India, yet it often goes unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage. The reason is simple — early symptoms are usually painless and easy to ignore.
This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to shift focus from treatment to awareness, early detection, and prevention.
At North East Cancer Hospital & Research Institute (NECHRI), Guwahati, we see firsthand how early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes and save lives.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the mouth, including:
Lips
Tongue
Gums
Inner cheeks
Roof and floor of the mouth
Throat (oropharynx)
Most oral cancers begin in the squamous cells lining the mouth and are often linked to lifestyle habits.
Why Oral Cancer Is a Major Concern in India
India carries a high burden of oral cancer cases globally. A major contributing factor is the widespread use of tobacco in various forms.
In Northeast India, the risk is further influenced by:
Tobacco chewing (gutkha, paan, supari)
Smoking
Alcohol consumption
Poor oral hygiene
Dietary habits
The challenge is not just the number of cases — but the late stage at which many patients seek treatment.
Early Signs You Should Never Ignore
Oral cancer often gives early warning signs. Recognising them can make a life-saving difference.
Watch for:
A mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal within 2 weeks
Red or white patches inside the mouth
Lumps or thickening in the cheek
Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
Persistent mouth or throat pain
Numbness in the tongue or mouth
Changes in voice or speech
If any of these symptoms persist, it is important to consult a specialist immediately.
The Power of Early Detection
Oral cancer is one of the few cancers that can be visually detected in early stages.
When diagnosed early:
Treatment is simpler
Survival rates are significantly higher
Recovery is faster
Quality of life is better preserved
A simple oral examination can help detect abnormalities before they become serious.
Who Should Get Screened?
You should consider regular oral screening if you:
Use tobacco in any form
Consume alcohol regularly
Have persistent oral lesions
Have a family history of cancer
Are above 30 years of age with risk factors
Even without symptoms, periodic screening can help in early detection.
Diagnosis and Treatment at NECHRI
At NECHRI Guwahati, oral cancer diagnosis and treatment follow a structured and advanced approach:
Diagnosis Includes:
Clinical examination
Biopsy for confirmation
Histopathology
Advanced imaging such as PET-CT scans for staging
Treatment Options:
Surgery
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy (in selected cases)
A multidisciplinary team ensures that every patient receives personalised and comprehensive care.
Prevention: Small Steps, Big Impact
Oral cancer is largely preventable with the right lifestyle choices:
Avoid tobacco in all forms
Limit or avoid alcohol consumption
Maintain good oral hygiene
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Go for regular dental and oral check-ups
Prevention begins with awareness and consistent habits.
NECHRI’s Commitment to Awareness and Care
As a leading cancer care centre in Northeast India, North East Cancer Hospital & Research Institute (NECHRI) is committed to:
Promoting awareness about oral cancer
Encouraging early screening and diagnosis
Providing advanced and affordable treatment
Supporting patients through every stage of care
Through community outreach and clinical excellence, NECHRI continues to strengthen cancer care across Assam.
A Final Message
Oral cancer does not appear overnight — it gives warning signs.
The key is to recognise them early and act without delay.
This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to check your oral health and encourage others to do the same.
📞 For consultation and screening: 9435707661
📠NECHRI, Jorabat, Guwahati
Early detection can save lives.
This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to shift focus from treatment to awareness, early detection, and prevention.
At North East Cancer Hospital & Research Institute (NECHRI), Guwahati, we see firsthand how early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes and save lives.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the mouth, including:
Lips
Tongue
Gums
Inner cheeks
Roof and floor of the mouth
Throat (oropharynx)
Most oral cancers begin in the squamous cells lining the mouth and are often linked to lifestyle habits.
Why Oral Cancer Is a Major Concern in India
India carries a high burden of oral cancer cases globally. A major contributing factor is the widespread use of tobacco in various forms.
In Northeast India, the risk is further influenced by:
Tobacco chewing (gutkha, paan, supari)
Smoking
Alcohol consumption
Poor oral hygiene
Dietary habits
The challenge is not just the number of cases — but the late stage at which many patients seek treatment.
Early Signs You Should Never Ignore
Oral cancer often gives early warning signs. Recognising them can make a life-saving difference.
Watch for:
A mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal within 2 weeks
Red or white patches inside the mouth
Lumps or thickening in the cheek
Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
Persistent mouth or throat pain
Numbness in the tongue or mouth
Changes in voice or speech
If any of these symptoms persist, it is important to consult a specialist immediately.
The Power of Early Detection
Oral cancer is one of the few cancers that can be visually detected in early stages.
When diagnosed early:
Treatment is simpler
Survival rates are significantly higher
Recovery is faster
Quality of life is better preserved
A simple oral examination can help detect abnormalities before they become serious.
Who Should Get Screened?
You should consider regular oral screening if you:
Use tobacco in any form
Consume alcohol regularly
Have persistent oral lesions
Have a family history of cancer
Are above 30 years of age with risk factors
Even without symptoms, periodic screening can help in early detection.
Diagnosis and Treatment at NECHRI
At NECHRI Guwahati, oral cancer diagnosis and treatment follow a structured and advanced approach:
Diagnosis Includes:
Clinical examination
Biopsy for confirmation
Histopathology
Advanced imaging such as PET-CT scans for staging
Treatment Options:
Surgery
Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy (in selected cases)
A multidisciplinary team ensures that every patient receives personalised and comprehensive care.
Prevention: Small Steps, Big Impact
Oral cancer is largely preventable with the right lifestyle choices:
Avoid tobacco in all forms
Limit or avoid alcohol consumption
Maintain good oral hygiene
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Go for regular dental and oral check-ups
Prevention begins with awareness and consistent habits.
NECHRI’s Commitment to Awareness and Care
As a leading cancer care centre in Northeast India, North East Cancer Hospital & Research Institute (NECHRI) is committed to:
Promoting awareness about oral cancer
Encouraging early screening and diagnosis
Providing advanced and affordable treatment
Supporting patients through every stage of care
Through community outreach and clinical excellence, NECHRI continues to strengthen cancer care across Assam.
A Final Message
Oral cancer does not appear overnight — it gives warning signs.
The key is to recognise them early and act without delay.
This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to check your oral health and encourage others to do the same.
📞 For consultation and screening: 9435707661
📠NECHRI, Jorabat, Guwahati
Early detection can save lives.