April is Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Month—a time to educate, advocate, and take action against one of the most prevalent yet preventable cancers. With India recording over 1,00,000 cases annually, understanding the risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies is crucial.

"Early detection is the best protection. Knowing the signs can mean the difference between life and death."

Understanding Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer

Oral, head, and neck cancers affect areas such as the mouth, tongue, lips, gums, throat, sinuses, and voice box. Shockingly, 95% of these cancers are linked to tobacco use, making lifestyle choices a major factor.

Who is at Risk?

Key risk factors include:

·         Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)

·         Excessive alcohol consumption

·         HPV infection

·         Poor oral hygiene

·         Chronic oral infections

·         Unhealthy diet

·         Genetic predisposition

"Tobacco doesn’t just harm your lungs—it’s the leading cause of oral cancer."

Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

Early symptoms often go unnoticed. Be alert for:
✔ Red or white patches in the mouth
✔ Non-healing ulcers (lasting more than 2 weeks)
✔ Difficulty swallowing or chewing
✔ Persistent hoarseness
✔ Unexplained weight loss
✔ Swollen lymph nodes

"A painless sore today could be a silent killer tomorrow. Don’t wait—get checked."

Prevention: Your Best Defense

The good news? Many cases are preventable. Here’s how:

·         Quit tobacco and limit alcohol

·         Maintain excellent oral hygiene

·         Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet

·         Get vaccinated against HPV

·         Regular dental check-ups

"Prevention isn’t just better than cure—it’s easier, cheaper, and life-saving."

Treatment Options: Modern and Ayurvedic Approaches

Modern Medicine

·         Surgery (tumor removal)

·         Radiation therapy

·         Chemotherapy

·         Targeted oral medications

Ayurveda’s Holistic Healing

·         Panchakarma therapies (Kavala, Gandusha, Jihva lekhana)

·         Medicinal herbs (Amalaki, Haritaki, Ela, Bhargi)

"Integrative care—combining modern science and ancient wisdom—can offer hope and healing."

Why Early Detection Matters

Many patients seek treatment at advanced stages, making recovery harder. Early diagnosis improves survival rates dramatically. If you notice any warning signs, consult a specialist immediately.

Join the Fight Against Cancer

This Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, spread the word. Share this article, encourage screenings, and support those battling cancer.

Stay informed. Stay healthy. Get screened today.

At D. S. Research Centre, we are successfully treating Oral, Head & Neck Cancer. Majority of them are at advanced stage. Many patients with ongoing conventional treatment adopt DSRC treatment to fight better and avoid toxicity of radiation and chemotherapy of ongoing treatment.