Every year on May 31st, the world observes No Tobacco Day, a global initiative by the WHO to combat tobacco addiction. At Dr. Gowd’s Dental Hospitals, we use this day to spotlight a silent epidemic—oral cancer, which is devastating millions of lives in India.
🚨 India: The Oral Cancer Capital of the World
India holds the grim distinction of being the oral cancer capital, accounting for one-third of global cases. Shocking statistics reveal:
✔ 1.2 lakh+ new cases diagnosed annually
✔ Most common cancer in Indian men, third in women
✔ One death every 6 minutes
✔ 60% diagnosed late, reducing survival chances
Why Is Oral Cancer So Prevalent in India?
1. Chewable Tobacco Epidemic
India leads in smokeless tobacco consumption, including:
- Gutkha, Khaini, Zarda
- Betel quid (Paan) with tobacco
- Pan masala
These products are often cheap, readily available, and falsely marketed as “mouth fresheners.” They contain over 30 known carcinogens and are directly associated with:
- Leukoplakia & Erythroplakia (pre-cancerous lesions)
- Oral Submucous Fibrosis (restricted mouth opening)
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (oral cancer)
2. Smoking – Cigarettes & Bidis
Although often considered a problem of urban lifestyles, bidi smoking is a major contributor to oral cancer in rural India. Bidis contain more nicotine and tar than regular cigarettes and damage the tissues of the oral cavity, leading to:
- Chronic gum infections
- Tongue, lip, and cheek cancers
3. Lack of Awareness & Late Diagnosis
Due to limited access to oral health education and dental care, many individuals ignore early signs such as ulcers, mouth stiffness, or discolored patches—leading to late-stage diagnosis, when prognosis is poor.
🦷 How Tobacco Destroys Oral Health
Beyond cancer, tobacco causes:
✔ Gum disease & tooth loss
✔ Bad breath & stained teeth
✔ Delayed healing after dental implants or surgery
✔ Increased complications in dental treatments
👨⚕ Dr. Vikas Gowd’s Message on No Tobacco Day
“At Dr. Gowd’s Dental Hospitals, we believe dentistry is the first defense against oral cancer. Early detection saves lives. Tobacco isn’t just a habit—it’s a public health disaster. Every non-healing ulcer or suspicious lesion must be evaluated seriously. With regular checkups and timely screening, we can detect early changes that save lives. Tobacco is not just a personal choice—it’s a public health hazard. The mouth never lies—listen to it before it’s too late.”
💡 How You Can Protect Yourself
- Quit tobacco – The sooner, the better.
- Regular dental checkups – Essential for early detection.
- Watch for warning signs – Ulcers, white/red patches, swelling.
- Educate loved ones – Avoid gutkha, bidis, and cigarettes.
- Support stricter tobacco bans – Advocate for public health.
🌟 How Dr. Gowd’s Dental Hospitals Can Help
As the best dental hospital in Hyderabad, we offer:
✅ Tobacco cessation counseling
✅ Advanced oral cancer screenings (VELscope®, brush biopsies)
✅ Treatment for gum disease & pre-cancerous lesions
✅ Restorative & cosmetic solutions for tobacco damage
📞 Act Now – Book a Screening!
This No Tobacco Day, take a stand against oral cancer. Visit Dr. Gowd Dental Hospitals—Hyderabad’s trusted name in dental care & oral cancer prevention.
📍 Website: www.drgowddental.com
📞 Call: 8886664788