Wockhardt Oncologist Dr. Sagar Bhalerao Raises Alarm Over Tobacco-Linked Oral Cancer

Surge-emphasizes urgent need for awareness and collective action as oral cancer cases rise across India On World No Tobacco Day.

Nagpur, May 29:

Marking World No Tobacco Day, Dr. Sagar Bhalerao, Senior Surgical Oncologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Nagpur, has expressed serious concern over the strong link between tobacco consumption and the growing number of oral cavity cancer cases in India. Drawing from his clinical experience and current medical research, Dr. Bhalerao underscored the urgent need for widespread awareness, preventive measures, and immediate policy intervention.

Dr. Bhalerao explained that oral cancer is one of the most common and rapidly growing forms of cancer in India, with over 90% of head and neck cancer cases directly linked to tobacco use. “In my practice, I have witnessed the devastating impact tobacco has on patients and their families,” he said. Products like khaini, gutkha, pan masala, and dried tobacco leaves are widely consumed in both rural and urban areas. A study published in the South Asian Journal of Cancer reveals that 44% of adult rural cancer patients use smokeless tobacco, making it one of the leading causes of the disease.

The cancer expert from Wockhardt Hospitals further highlighted that in India, the habit of chewing areca nut and betel quid—often mixed with tobacco—is deeply rooted in cultural practices and significantly increases the risk of oral cancer. Poor oral hygiene, particularly among underprivileged populations, further aggravates the issue.

Dr. Bhalerao urged citizens to remain vigilant about early signs and symptoms of oral cancer, such as mouth ulcers that don’t heal within two weeks, red or white patches inside the mouth, lumps or swelling in the mouth or neck, and difficulty swallowing or speaking. “Early diagnosis can save lives. Unfortunately, many patients come to us when the disease is already in an advanced stage. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking timely treatment is critical,” he said.

Advanced treatment options including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are available at Wockhardt Hospitals, Nagpur. However, Dr. Bhalerao stressed that prevention—especially quitting tobacco—is the most effective way to reduce the risk. The hospital also runs tobacco cessation programs to support individuals in overcoming addiction and improving long-term health outcomes.

Calling for a unified national effort, Dr. Bhalerao emphasized the importance of public education campaigns, stricter regulations on the sale and advertisement of tobacco products, and wider access to cessation resources. “We need collaboration between the healthcare system and society to stop this preventable yet deadly disease,” he added.

As India observes World No Tobacco Day, Wockhardt Hospitals, Nagpur, continues to lead in cancer care, combining advanced treatment, public education, and preventive health programs. The hospital remains committed to building a tobacco-free and healthier future for all.