Apollo Cancer Centres Launches #OraLife Oral Cancer Screening Program
Chennai: On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) has launched #OraLife, a proactive screening initiative focused on the early detection of oral cancer. This program aims to promote public awareness, routine screening, and targeted intervention, particularly for high-risk individuals.
India faces a significant burden of oral cancer, accounting for nearly one-third of global cases, with 77,000 new diagnoses and 52,000 deaths annually. Tobacco users are 6 to 7 times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users. The #OraLife program encourages everyone over 30 years of age, especially tobacco users, to undergo regular screenings, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
In a bid to provide holistic support, Apollo Cancer Centres has partnered with the Isha Foundation to help individuals overcome tobacco addiction. This collaboration integrates physical health interventions with mental and emotional wellness support, including a 7-minute guided meditation led by Sadhguru through the “Miracle of Mind” app.
Karan Puri, CEO of Apollo Cancer Centre, emphasizes the importance of integrated care, stating, “Our mission goes beyond treatment—we aim to equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to take control of their health. Our collaboration with Isha Foundation is a testament to our belief in integrated care, where early detection and mental wellness are both critical pillars.”
The #OraLife program involves a comprehensive visual and tactile oral examination conducted by trained medical oncologists and head & neck surgeons to identify early warning signs. By promoting early detection and prevention, #OraLife aims to reduce the impact of oral cancer and enhance overall health.
Additionally, the #CutTheCost campaign highlights the financial and emotional toll of tobacco use, revealing that tobacco users spend over ₹1.1 lakh more on healthcare over their lifetime compared to non-users. This initiative encourages individuals to re-evaluate the true cost of their habits and adopt preventive healthcare practices.
