Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC), a pioneer in oncology care, has launched a landmark initiative named #OraLife, a nationwide oral cancer screening program. This strategic health campaign was unveiled on World No Tobacco Day, May 31, 2025, to tackle the alarming rise of oral cancer cases in India. As the country accounts for nearly one-third of the world’s oral cancer burden, early detection and awareness have become critical.
India’s Oral Cancer Crisis: A Silent Epidemic
Oral cancer is among the top three types of cancers in India, with over 77,000 new cases and 52,000 deaths reported annually. Despite medical advancements, India still struggles with late diagnoses, leading to a low survival rate of just 50%—significantly below that of developed nations.
The primary causes of oral cancer include:
- Tobacco consumption (both smokeless and smoked)
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Human papillomavirus (HPV-16) infection
- Chronic irritation and poor oral hygiene
Worryingly, there has been a surge in oral cancer among younger individuals and a narrowing gender gap, with increasing tobacco use among women. These trends underscore the urgent need for preventive measures and mass screening programs like #OraLife.
What is #OraLife? A Proactive Approach to Early Detection
The #OraLife initiative by Apollo Cancer Centres focuses on early detection, awareness, and support. The screening is performed by experienced head and neck specialists using non-invasive visual and tactile examination techniques to detect early signs of oral cancer such as:
- Persistent mouth ulcers
- Red or white patches
- Lumps or swellings in the mouth
- Non-healing sores
- Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
Key Features of the #OraLife Screening Program
- Targeted Risk Screening
The program is specifically designed for individuals at high risk, including:- Smokers and users of smokeless tobacco
- Regular alcohol consumers
- Individuals with a history of oral lesions
- People with a family history of cancer
- Those infected with HPV-16
- Free and Accessible Check-ups
Apollo Cancer Centres are offering free screenings across multiple cities, making the service accessible to thousands of individuals, especially in underserved areas. - Integrated Holistic Support
In collaboration with spiritual wellness organizations like Isha Foundation, the program also offers support to quit tobacco through guided meditation and mindfulness techniques, accessible via the “Miracle of Mind” app. - Public Awareness Campaign: #CutTheCost
To complement the screening initiative, Apollo has also introduced the #CutTheCost campaign to educate people about the health and financial toll of tobacco addiction.
Who Should Get Screened?
Medical experts recommend that individuals aged 30 and above, especially those with a history of tobacco or alcohol use, should undergo routine oral cancer screenings. Early detection can:
- Significantly improve survival rates
- Reduce treatment costs
- Prevent disfigurement and speech impairment
- Enable quicker and more effective treatment options
Why This Initiative Matters
The #OraLife campaign isn’t just about screening—it’s about saving lives through:
- Timely diagnosis
- Community participation
- Reducing the stigma around cancer
- Educating the public on lifestyle choices
With oral cancer rates climbing rapidly, especially among young adults, initiatives like #OraLife are crucial in changing the healthcare narrative in India.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Step Toward a Healthier Future
The launch of #OraLife by Apollo Cancer Centres signifies a bold step forward in India’s public health strategy. By combining clinical excellence, community outreach, and holistic wellness, the program aims to reverse the disturbing trends in oral cancer mortality.
As the nation observes World No Tobacco Day, #OraLife serves as a timely reminder that prevention, awareness, and early detection are our strongest weapons in the fight against cancer.
