Latest news with #OraLife
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Apollo Cancer Centres launch oral cancer screening
Mysuru: Tobacco use is no longer a personal habit — it's a national health crisis. India accounts for nearly one-third of global oral cancer cases, with 77,000 new diagnoses and 52,000 deaths annually. The survival rate stands at just 50%, significantly lower than in developed countries, said Dr Naveen Jayaram Anvekar, medical oncologist at Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru. This alarming trend is compounded by rising tobacco consumption across both urban and rural India, as highlighted by the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (2022–23), which noted increased spending on paan, tobacco and other intoxicants, he said. On account of World No Tobacco Day (31 May), Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) has launched OraLife, a screening initiative focused on the early detection of oral cancer. As part of this initiative, ACC has partnered with the Isha Foundation to support individuals seeking to overcome tobacco addiction. This collaboration integrates physical health interventions with mental and emotional wellness support. Notably, smokeless tobacco use is rising among women, contributing to a narrowing gender gap in incidence rates, he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like ¡Trading con IA en Chile ayuda a usuarios a obtener ganancias potenciales! Mainhubfb Más información Undo Dr Ramya Yethadka, surgical oncologist, said, "Oral cancer is highly treatable when detected early. We urge everyone over 30, especially tobacco users, to undergo screening." As part of this initiative, individuals will have access to a 7-minute guided meditation led by Sadhguru, said Dr Veena of the Isha Foundation. Aman Nayak, Medical Superintendent, Apollo Hospital, was present.
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Doctors raise the importance of oral screening and tobacco cessation to prevent oral cancers
CHENNAI In line with the World No Tobacco Day (WNTD), experts highlighted the importance of screening to detect oral cancers early and the need to quit tobacco to prevent oral cancers. A number of events were held on Friday to mark WNTD, which falls on May 31. Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) launched #OraLife, a nationwide oral cancer screening programme aimed at early detection and prevention. The programme offers comprehensive oral screening conducted by trained oncologists and surgeons, identifying early warning signs such as persistent ulcers, red or white patches, or non-healing sores. Sandeep Duarah, senior consultant, surgical oncology, ACC Vanagaram, emphasised that everyone is vulnerable to oral cancer, and screening is essential as it can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. Naveen Hedne, senior consultant, head and neck surgical Oncology, ACC Teynampet, noted that most patients still present at advanced stages, stressing the critical importance of early detection. Sapna Nangia, director – head, neck and breast - senior consultant, radiation oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, added that oral cancer remains the most common cancer among Indian men, with significant disparities between incidence and survival. 'Everyone carries some risk. No one should ignore even a sharp tooth,' cautioned N. Mahathi, professor, oral oncology and maxillofacial surgery, and a representative of the Isha Foundation. To support holistic recovery, ACC has partnered with the Isha Foundation to provide integrated tobacco cessation support. The launch also included unveiling of the #CutTheCost campaign, which highlights the financial toll of tobacco use -- estimated at over ₹1.1 lakh in additional lifetime healthcare expenses per user. Rathna Devi, senior consultant, radiation oncology, and Kannan, consultant, head and neck oncology and skull base surgery, both from ACC Teynampet, called oral cancer screening and tobacco cessation 'the best move' and urged the public to 'stop the habit.' VS Hospitals rolled out a 'Two-minute action for oral cancer protection' campaign urging people to perform quick oral self-checks to catch the early signs of cancer. It runs on the message of 'Feel, Look, Act'. Doctors said people should look at their entire mouth in the mirror, feel for any changes, white or red patches in the mouth, non-healing ulcers, lumps or swelling in the jaw or neck and in the case of any abnormality, seek medical help immediately. 'Tobacco use - be it smoking or chewing - could cause cancers, predominantly of the oral cavity,' S. Subramanian, founder chairman and managing director, VS Hospitals, said. He emphasised the need for awareness, and screening for early diagnosis that makes cure possible. Noting that the incidence of cancer is on the rise, S. Nithya, associate director and senior consultant, Medical Oncology at the hospital said people should understand the ill-effects of tobacco and quit as soon as possible. 'It takes 15 to 20 years for the effect of tobacco to come down. Quitting today is important,' she said. Oral cancers, one of the commonest cancers in India, includes that of the tongue, cheek, throat and oral cavity. 'The changes will be visible. Once there is an abnormality such as white or red patches, which are the early symptoms, it is important to see the doctor immediately,' she said. In another event, CANSTOP, a community-based organisation of Sundaram Medical Foundation Hospital, collaborated with Rotary District 3234 to raise awareness on WNTD at Anna Nagar Tower Park. The awareness event featured activities, including an awareness talk, 'paraiattam', street theatre, mime, and a flash mob aimed at educating the public on the dangers of tobacco use. Free oral and general medical screening camps were held. B. Sneha Priya, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Anna Nagar, N.S. Saravanan, District Governor, Rotary District 3234, Arjun Rangarajan, trustee, Sundaram Medical Foundation and Sachin Siva, Captain of the Indian Cricket Team for the Physically Challenged took part, according to a press release.
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Apollo Hospitals, Isha Foundation launch initiative to combat tobacco addiction
On the eve of World No-Tobacco Day, Apollo Cancer Centres and the Isha Foundation have jointly announced a unique initiative that aims to help individuals quit tobacco addiction on Friday. The initiative includes the practice of 'Miracle of Mind' meditation by the Isha Foundation and a meticulously designed 6-week programme to help individuals naturally outgrow the need for tobacco. The 'Miracle of Mind' is a free meditation app offering a a powerful 7-minute guided meditation by Sadhguru, helping individuals take charge of their well-being. It also features streaks, reminders, rewards, and personalised wisdom from Sadhguru. Over 2 million people have downloaded the app to establish a daily meditation practice and transformed their lives. The collaboration represents a shared understanding that healthcare must be holistic, treating not just disease but the human experience of illness, including mental strain, isolation, and loss of control. Addressing the media on behalf of the Isha Foundation, Dr. Rajesh Babu Devabhakthuni, Consultant Neurosurgeon, said that Isha Yoga offers several practices aimed at improving well-being by helping with emotional regulation and increasing self-awareness, some of the key factors in breaking habits like tobacco addiction. Among these, the 'Miracle of Mind' meditation was chosen as it was a short, effective practice of just seven minutes and fits easily into today's busy lifestyles. It could be done anytime and anywhere. One of the key factors of addiction is emotional dysregulation, due to which people often develop habits as a way to cope with stress and emotional imbalance. Backed by substantial research, Isha Yoga practices address these underlying issues by promoting emotional regulation and stress reduction, making them effective components in addiction programs. These practices provide both psychological and physiological support to individuals, helping them manage stress better and improve their overall health, he explained. Screening initiative launched Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) has launched #OraLife, a proactive screening initiative focused on the early detection of oral cancer. The program emphasises public awareness, routine screening, and targeted intervention, particularly for high-risk individuals, including tobacco users, alcohol consumers, those with HPV-16 infection, and people with prior oral lesions. Tobacco users are six to seven times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users. Oral cancer is one of the few cancers that can be detected early through a simple oral examination, said Dr. Pradeep Ventrapati, Consultant, Medical Oncologist. Dr. Dheeraj Kondamudi, Consultant – Head & Neck, Surgical Oncology at ACC, Visakhapatnam, was also present.
United News of India
3 days ago
- Health
- United News of India
ACC introduces screening program for early detection of Oral Cancer
Hyderabad, May 30 (UNI)Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) on World No Tobacco Day,(ACC) launched #OraLife, a proactive screening initiative focused on the early detection of oral cancer on Friday. The program emphasizes public awareness, routine screening, and targeted intervention particularly for high-risk individuals, including tobacco users, alcohol consumers, those with HPV-16 infection, and people with prior oral lesions. As part of this initiative, ACC has partnered with the Isha Foundation to provide holistic support for individuals seeking to overcome tobacco addiction. This collaboration integrates physical health interventions with mental and emotional wellness support. 'Tobacco users are six to seven times more likely to develop oral cancer than cancer is one of the few cancers that can be detected early through a simple oral examination. With this program, our goal is to detect cases early—before it's too late.' said Dr. Umanath Nayak Senior Consultant Head and Neck Oncology Surgeon at Apollo Cancer Centre. Oral cancer is the most common cancer among Indian men and is rising steadily among women. Incidence rates vary widely across states: West Bengal reports the highest, while Kerala sees the lowest. Maharashtra, Ahmedabad Urban, and Meghalaya also report alarmingly high figures—largely driven by tobacco use. Chennai-based studies have identified an increase in cancers of the tongue base and floor of the mouth, sites known for high metastatic potential. The buccal mucosa remains the most frequently affected site nationwide. Notably, smokeless tobacco use is rising among women, contributing to a narrowing gender gap in incidence rates. Risk factors—such as the combined use of smokeless tobacco, betel quid, and alcohol—are especially prevalent in underserved communities with limited access to preventive care. The disease is increasingly affecting individuals aged 31–50, with poor nutrition further exacerbating the risk. 'Our objective is to foster a culture of preventive healthcare. Oral cancer is highly treatable when detected early. We urge everyone over 30, especially tobacco users to undergo screening.' said Dr. Arsheed Hakeem Consultant - Head & Neck Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Jubilees Hills, Hyderabd. The #OraLife, the Oral Cancer Screening Program, involves a comprehensive visual and tactile oral examination conducted by trained medical oncologists and head & neck surgeons. It aims to identify early warning signs such as persistent ulcers, red or white patches, lumps, and non-healing sores—many of which are often overlooked. Apollo has teamed up with the Isha Foundation to incorporate spiritual well-being into its tobacco cessation efforts. As part of this, individuals will have access to a simple, yet effective 7-minute guided meditation led by Sadhguru. 'Miracle of Mind' is a free meditation app that empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being. ' Our collaboration with Isha Foundation is a testament to our belief in integrated care, where early detection and mental wellness are both critical pillars.' Dr. Abhishek Budharapu, - Head & Neck Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre said. Research indicates that tobacco users spend over Rs 1.1 lakh more on healthcare over their lifetime compared to non-users. The consequences extend beyond health—tobacco use reduces life expectancy, raises insurance premiums, limits claim payouts, and destabilizes families, particularly when primary earners are affected. UNI KNR BD
