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- Title
Oral cancer in India continues in epidemic proportions: Evidence base and policy initiatives.
- Authors
Gupta, Bhawna; Ariyawardana, Anura; Johnson, Newell W.
- Abstract
Brief Background India has the highest number of cases of oral cancer in the world and this is increasing. This burden is not fully appreciated even within India, despite the high incidence and poor survival associated with this disease. Because the aetiology of oral cancer is predominantly tobacco-related, the immense public health challenge can be ameliorated through habit intervention. Methods We reviewed current rates of incidence, mortality and survival, and investigated the determinants of disease and current prevention strategies. Results In addition to tobacco smoking and the myriad other forms of tobacco use prevalent in India, risk factors include areca nut consumption, alcohol consumption, human papilloma virus, increasing age, male gender and socioeconomic factors. Although India has world-leading cancer treatment centres, access to these is limited. Further, the focus of healthcare services remains clinical and is either curative or palliative. Summary and Conclusions: Although the efforts of agencies such as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Indian Dental Association are laudable, enhanced strategies should be based on common risk factors, focusing on primary prevention, health education, early detection and the earliest possible therapeutic intervention. A multi-agency approach is required.
- Subjects
INDIA; TOBACCO &; cancer; EPIDEMIOLOGY
- Publication
JIDA: Journal of Indian Dental Association, 2015, Vol 9, Issue 2, p16
- ISSN
0019-4611
- Publication type
Case Study