logo
Chennai, May 30 (UNI) The Chennai-based VS Hospitals, in association with Merck Specialities

Chennai, May 30 (UNI) The Chennai-based VS Hospitals, in association with Merck Specialities

Oral cancer protection campaign launched
Private Limited, on FridaY launched the 'Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection' campaign
with the hashtag #ActAgainstOralCancer on the note of World No Tobacco Day.
This nationwide campaign urges people to perform quick oral self-checks to catch early signs of
cancer.
Mirrors will be placed in hospital waiting areas to help visitors spot red or white patches, non-healing
sores, swelling, or voice changes. The message is Feel, Look, Act.
The rising surge in oral cancer cases is an urgent call for immediate public awareness, early detection, and preventive action. The causes include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection, Prof. Dr. S. Subramanian, senior most medical oncologist, Founder Chairman, and Managing Director, said.
Early detection through regular self-checks is key to improving outcomes. Complications of oral cancer can include difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and breathing, as well as the spread of cancer to nearby tissues or other parts of the body, he said, according to a hospital release.
He said the Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection" campaign will help with timely detection and management of oral cancer.
Dr. S. Nithya, Associate Director and Senior Consultant - Medical Oncology, said 'Head and neck cancer is the most common cancer among Indians. These cases are steadily increasing, and among them, oral cancer is rising at an alarming rate.
While breast cancer awareness has grown over the years, especially about self-exams, the same urgency was missing when it comes to oral cancer as nearly 65% of patients visit the doctor in advanced stages of the disease, which delays treatment and reduces survival rates.
This campaign underscores the importance of a quick monthly self-checks for effective treatment
and a better chance of recovery,' she said.
UNI GV 1750
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Michael Douglas cancer diagnosis: What did the 'Basic Instinct' star think caused the cancer and what it actually was
Michael Douglas cancer diagnosis: What did the 'Basic Instinct' star think caused the cancer and what it actually was

Time of India

time3 hours ago

  • Time of India

Michael Douglas cancer diagnosis: What did the 'Basic Instinct' star think caused the cancer and what it actually was

Even the 'Basic Instinct' star wasn't immune, as it seems. In 2010, Hollywood icon Michael Douglas publicly revealed he was battling stage IV throat cancer. He initially thought stress, years of smoking, and heavy drinking might have played a role. However, as facts emerged, it became clear the cancer was linked to a different culprit altogether. What was it? What did Michael Douglas think caused his cancer (and what it really was) When diagnosed in August 2010, Douglas publicly suggested that long-term alcohol and tobacco use, along with stress, might have contributed to his cancer. He admitted that stress, especially relating to his son's incarceration at the time, also weighed on his mind. Later, in a candid 2013 interview, the American actor and producer mentioned human papillomavirus (HPV) tied to oral sex as a possible cause. In a quite uncanny manner, parallels were drawn between him starring in films like 'Basic Instinct', 'Fatal Attraction', and so on. His initial symptoms, like persistent throat or ear pain, were misdiagnosed as infection, until a physician in Montreal peered deep into his throat and a tumor was spotted at the base of his tongue. A biopsy confirmed stage IV squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, an advanced form of oral cancer, prompting immediate treatment with chemotherapy and radiation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Efail Isaf: If You Were Born Between 1940-1975 You Could Be Eligible For This Life Cover Reassured Get Quote Undo The real culprit: HPV, not habits In 2013, Douglas made headlines when he suggested his cancer was caused by HPV, a sexually transmitted virus, possibly contracted through oral sex. He remarked: 'this particular cancer is caused by HPV … which actually comes about from cunnilingus.' However, his representatives clarified he was speaking broadly about HPV-linked cancers, not necessarily his own case. They added that he did not definitively state that oral sex caused his personal cancer, and emphasized that HPV is a known risk factor for oropharyngeal cancers, but not necessarily the direct cause in every case. What is HPV and why does it matter in oral cancer HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is a common viral infection that can cause various health problems. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and affects the skin and mucous membranes, with over 200 identified types. While many HPV infections are harmless and resolve on their own, some types can lead to serious complications like genital warts and certain cancers. HPV is categorized into low-risk and high-risk types. Low-risk HPV: These types can cause genital warts but are not typically associated with cancer. High-risk HPV: These types can lead to various cancers, including cervical, vaginal, penile, anal, and throat cancers. HPV is now recognized as a major risk factor for this type of cancer, particularly in the back of the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue. While HPV infection is common, it usually clears up on its own. However, in some cases, it can persist and lead to the development of cancer years later. HPV-related throat cancers are becoming increasingly common. In fact, HPV now accounts for a majority of oropharyngeal cancer cases, especially among men. These cancers often strike adults who are non-smokers and non-heavy drinkers. What is squamous cell carcinoma? Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of cancer that develops from squamous cells, which are flat, scale-like cells found in the skin and other tissues. It's the second most common type of skin cancer, after basal cell carcinoma, and can also occur in other areas like the lungs, head and neck, and cervix. SCC is often caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Squamous cells are a type of epithelial cell, meaning they form the lining of surfaces throughout the body, including the skin, respiratory tract, and digestive tract. They are flat and scale-like, resembling fish scales under a microscope. While SCC is commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the skin like the face, scalp, and hands, it can also develop in other locations, including: Skin: This is the most common site. Lungs: Lung cancer can sometimes be of the squamous cell type. Head and neck: This includes cancers of the mouth, throat, and voice box. Cervix: Cervical cancer can also be squamous cell carcinoma. Other locations: SCC can also occur in the nasal cavity, sinuses, and tear ducts. Can HPV cause SCC? Some types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) can cause squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Specifically, high-risk HPV types, like HPV-16 and HPV-18, are strongly linked to the development of certain squamous cell carcinomas, particularly in the oropharynx (the middle part of the throat). HPV infection is a significant risk factor for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Risk factors SCC risk factors include excessive sun exposure, fair skin, a history of sunburns, older age, male gender, immunosuppression, and certain genetic syndromes apart from those stemming from HPV. Lifestyle factors like smoking and heavy alcohol consumption also increase the risk. Additionally, chronic wounds, exposure to radiation or arsenic, and a history of other skin cancers can be contributing factors. Let's take a detailed look: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure: Sun exposure is the most significant risk factor, particularly for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Cumulative sun damage over time, especially during youth, increases the risk. Fair skin: Individuals with fair skin (Fitzpatrick skin types I-III) are more susceptible due to lower melanin levels, which offer less protection against UV radiation. Age: The incidence of SCC rises with age, with most cases occurring in individuals over 50. Gender: Males are generally at a higher risk of developing SCC compared to females. Immunosuppression: Weakened immune systems, often due to medications or organ transplants, make individuals more vulnerable to SCC. Genetic predisposition: Certain inherited conditions and genetic mutations (like TP53, CDKN2A, Ras, and NOTCH1) can increase susceptibility to SCC. Smoking and alcohol consumption: Heavy smoking and excessive alcohol intake are strongly linked to SCC, particularly in the oral cavity and esophagus. Chronic wounds and scarring: Persistent wounds, burns, or scars can create an environment where SCC can develop. Arsenic exposure: Long-term exposure to arsenic, through drinking water or occupational settings, can increase the risk of SCC. Actinic keratosis: These are precancerous skin lesions caused by sun damage and are a significant risk factor for cSCC. Oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene and dental problems can contribute to oral SCC. Family history: A family history of skin cancer can increase an individual's risk of developing SCC. Prevention and treatment To prevent squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin, it's crucial to minimize sun exposure and avoid tanning beds. Regularly using sunscreen with at least SPF 30, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and wearing protective clothing like hats and long sleeves are essential steps. Annual skin exams, especially for those with risk factors like a history of sun exposure or family history of skin cancer, are also recommended. Squamous cell skin cancer treatment options include surgery (excision, Mohs surgery), radiation therapy, and topical or systemic medications, depending on the cancer's size, location, and stage. For early-stage, small cancers, less invasive procedures like curettage and electrodesiccation, cryosurgery, or photodynamic therapy might be sufficient. For advanced cases, or when surgery is not an option, radiation therapy or medications like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil may be used. In the case of Douglas, the actor underwent aggressive chemotherapy and radiation treatments and has been cancer-free since 2011, though he continues with regular check-ups. Sanjay Dutt on his battle with cancer: 'It all comes down to willpower and keeping the faith'

RFK Jr.'s vow to overhaul vaccine injury program echoes grievances of anti-vaccine movement
RFK Jr.'s vow to overhaul vaccine injury program echoes grievances of anti-vaccine movement

The Hindu

time2 days ago

  • The Hindu

RFK Jr.'s vow to overhaul vaccine injury program echoes grievances of anti-vaccine movement

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is vowing to 'fix' the federal programme for compensating Americans injured by vaccines, opening the door to sweeping changes for a system long targeted by anti-vaccine activists Vaccine Injury Compensation Program history and purpose Health experts and lawyers say updates are needed to help clear a backlog of cases in the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, created by Congress in 1986 as a no-fault payment system for presumed vaccine injuries. But they also worry Kennedy's changes will reflect his history as a leader in the anti-vaccine movement, which has alternately called for abolishing the program or expanding it to cover unproven injuries and illnesses that aren't connected to vaccines. Kennedy and other critics believe the programme is 'too miserly in what it considers to be a vaccine injury,' said Jason Schwartz, a public health expert at Yale University. 'That's created great concern that he could expand what's included.' Anti-vaccine groups have long suggested a link between vaccines and autism, despite scientific consensus that childhood vaccines don't cause the condition. Adding autism to the list of injuries covered by the plan 'would dramatically increase the number of compensable cases, potentially bankrupting it," Schwartz said. Signed into law under President Ronald Reagan, the compensation programme is designed to provide quick, efficient compensation to Americans who report known injuries associated with vaccines, such as rare allergic reactions. At the time of its creation, a number of vaccine-makers were exiting the business due to risks of class action lawsuits. In a recent social media post, Kennedy called the programme 'broken' and accused federal lawyers and adjudicators who run it of 'inefficiency, favoritism and outright corruption.' Kennedy didn't specify the changes he's seeking. But some of the people he's enlisted to help have a history of bringing vaccine injury cases. In June, the Department of Health and Human Services awarded a $150,000 contract to an Arizona law firm for 'expertise' in the programme. The firm's Andrew Downing, an attorney specialising in vaccine injury cases, was listed in the HHS staff directory for a time. 'We just brought a guy in this week who is going to be revolutionizing the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program,' Kennedy told Tucker Carlson shortly after the award. Revamping the program would be the latest in a string of decisions that have upended U.S. vaccine policy, including this week's cancellation of research funding for vaccines using mRNA technology. Potential impacts of Kennedy's proposed changes Downing has had a leading role in lawsuits against Merck alleging injuries from its HPV vaccine, Gardasil, including a rare movement disorder. In a podcast last year for people with the condition, Downing lamented that the injury compensation programme 'has taken a hard line' against such cases, leading lawyers to file injury lawsuits in civil court. Approximately 70% of the Gardasil cases against Merck started as claims filed by Downing in the federal injury program, according to court records. A judge dismissed more than 120 of those cases, citing 'a paucity of evidence" that Gardasil caused patients' problems. A spokesman for Kennedy declined to comment on Downing's hiring. Kennedy himself has been involved in the Gardasil litigation, as both an attorney and consultant. Before joining the government, Kennedy received payments for referring potential Gardasil clients to Wisner Baum, one of the law firms suing Merck. Following questions about the agreement during his confirmation hearings, Kennedy agreed to give up his stake in the deal and transfer any future fees to 'a nondependent, adult son," according to his financial disclosures. One of Kennedy's sons is an attorney at Wisner Baum. Experts who study vaccine compensation say real changes are needed to modernise the 40-year-old programme. Existing gaps and proposed updates to the system The cap on compensation remains $250,000 for injury or death, the same as in 1986. Similarly, the program still has eight adjudicators, known as special masters, to review all cases before the government. On average, the process takes two to three years. The fund has paid out $5.4 billion, compensating about 40% of all people who filed claims. The U.S. has an 'ethical obligation' to promptly pay those harmed by government-recommended vaccines, says Dorit Reiss, a professor at the University of California Hastings College of the Law.'Plus, I think it increases trust in the vaccination program if you have quick, generous compensation,' Reiss said. As health secretary, Kennedy has broad powers to reshape the programme. One approach could be adding new diseases and illnesses to the government table of payable injuries. In the early 2000s, the program ruled against more than 5,000 claims from families who said vaccines led to their children's autism, citing hundreds of scientific studies discrediting the link. Critics of Kennedy say he could claim that he has new evidence of harm — perhaps from a large autism study he's commissioned — and add the condition to the program. In response, the federal government might have to increase taxes on vaccines to replenish the compensation fund, which would make the shots more expensive and less accessible. 'Then you will start to watch the vaccine programme infrastructure in this country disintegrate until someone steps in,' Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine researcher at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia who has clashed with Kennedy for years. A recent Senate hearing titled 'Voice of the Vaccine Injured' appeared to make the case for expanding the programme. Witnesses included two representatives from Children's Health Defense, the nonprofit group that Kennedy previously chaired and has repeatedly sued the government over vaccines. The group's chief science officer, Brian Hooker, told lawmakers he tried unsuccessfully for 16 years trying to get compensation for his son's autism, which he attributes to the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine. Another approach would involve removing certain vaccines from the program, making it easier to bring lawsuits against vaccine-makers. Under current law, people claiming injuries from vaccines covered by the program must first pursue a compensation claim before they can sue. In cases where the science doesn't support a connection to vaccines, lawyers might be more successful before a jury. 'Jury trials take advantage of the fact that most jurors don't know anything about science or medicine,' Offit said. 'They are not going to be as easily moved by the data.' Still, attorneys who bring cases before the compensation program say the process has become more burdensome and adversarial over the years. Even small changes could improve things. For instance, the statute of limitations for claims could be extended beyond the current three years, which lawyers say cuts off many potential clients. 'I'm hoping there will be changes put in place that make the programme easier for petitioners to navigate' said Leah Durant, a vaccine injury attorney.

Cancer risk and the link with your habits; how to stay safe, lifestyle choices and family history
Cancer risk and the link with your habits; how to stay safe, lifestyle choices and family history

Time of India

time2 days ago

  • Time of India

Cancer risk and the link with your habits; how to stay safe, lifestyle choices and family history

Leading health experts emphasize that lifestyle choices significantly impact cancer and dementia risk. Adopting healthy habits like avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and eating a plant-rich diet are crucial for cancer prevention. A recent study also reveals that lifestyle interventions can slow cognitive decline, even for those genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's. Everyday habits could be silently raising your cancer risk, here's how to stay safe and take control Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Cancer risk and the lifestyle connection Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Key factors that reduce cancer risk: Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking remains the leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths globally. It's directly linked to cancers of the lung, mouth, throat, bladder, kidney, and more. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is associated with increased risk for at least 13 types of cancer, including breast, liver, colon, and pancreatic cancers. Stay Physically Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Eat a Plant-Rich Diet: Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts. Limit red and processed meats, refined sugars, and saturated fats. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol increases risk for several cancers, including breast, colorectal, and liver. If you drink, do so in moderation (one drink per day for women, two for men). Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of skin cancer. Use broad-spectrum SPF, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds. Hydrate Wisely: Though not a direct cancer-fighting strategy, drinking enough fluids, around 8-13 cups daily, supports healthy cellular function and may reduce risks for certain cancers like bladder and colon. Know Your Family History: Genetic predispositions matter. Share your family's cancer history with your doctor and consider genetic counseling if needed. Get Regular Checkups and Screenings: Early detection saves lives. Annual visits after age 50 (or every 3 years before that) allow physicians to screen for cancers like breast, cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Less obvious (but critical) risk factors to watch: Chronic Stress: Stress doesn't cause cancer directly, but it can weaken immune response and increase inflammation, both contributors to disease development. Infections: Viruses such as HPV and Hepatitis B have direct links to cancers like cervical and liver cancer. Environmental Exposures: Workplace toxins, air pollution, and chemicals in plastics and cosmetics may also raise risk, especially over time. Why cancer isn't just an 'Older Person's' disease anymore Tips for Young Adults in Their 20s and 30s: Cut out or avoid tobacco. Focus on whole, fiber-rich foods and healthy fats. Move daily, walk, swim, dance, lift. Get regular Pap smears, colon cancer screenings (if family history applies), and HPV vaccinations. Practice safe sex to reduce infection-related cancer risk. Limit screen time and stress, and protect your mental health. The brain-body connection: How lifestyle slows cognitive decline The MIND diet Leafy greens and other vegetables Berries (especially blueberries) Nuts Whole grains Fish (at least once a week) Olive oil over butter Limited red meat and sweets Why you shouldn't wait until you're older Cancer and dementia are among the most feared health threats of our time. While genetics and aging are unchangeable factors, a growing body of research continues to affirm one powerful truth, lifestyle choices your 20s to your 80s, embracing a healthy way of life can significantly reduce your cancer risk and potentially protect your brain from cognitive decline Leading health experts, including Dr. Mohammed Salhab of AdventHealth Hematology and Oncology in Denver, and researchers behind a landmark Alzheimer's Association study, are urging people of all ages to take charge of their health."Adopting a healthy lifestyle is one of the most effective strategies we have to lower cancer risk," says Dr. Salhab. "While not every case of cancer can be prevented, the evidence is overwhelming that diet, exercise, and other lifestyle habits play a major role."Recent research highlights a concerning trend: cancers of the digestive system, such as colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers, are rising among adults under 50."It's more important than ever for young people to be proactive," says Dr. Salhab. 'Early lifestyle choices set the foundation for long-term health.'According to the groundbreaking US POINTER study, led by the Alzheimer's Association and presented this July at the International Conference in Toronto, lifestyle interventions helped slow cognitive decline in people aged 60 to 79, even those at high genetic risk for Alzheimer's.A blend of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, the MIND diet focuses on:This same diet also aligns with many cancer-preventive dietary you're in your 20s or your 60s, the message is clear: the earlier you adopt healthy habits , the better your chances of preventing disease and maintaining quality of no single magic bullet to prevent cancer or cognitive decline, but there is a blueprint. Nutrition, movement, mental fitness, and early detection form a powerful defense. As Dr. Salhab reminds us: 'Prevention is always better than cure.'Start where you are. Every step counts.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store