CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: For the first time, the District Hospital in Bhopal has introduced the special facility of Velscope and GOCCLES, which are autofluorescence-based devices for oral cancer screening and treatment. This examination is being conducted free of cost at the hospital’s dental wing. Through this, diagnosis can be made early, helping to prevent deformities and other complications due to late diagnosis.
Dental specialists Ruchita Khade, Shivangi Nayak, Humera, Shaijah Anis, and Apeksha have been assigned duties for the screening. For inquiries regarding this special examination available at the District Hospital, Hospital Manager Premchand Gupta can be contacted at the mobile number – 8319749060.
Bhopal’s Chief Medical and Health Officer Prabhakar Tiwari stated that symptoms such as white or red patches or sores in the mouth, stiffening of the skin at any place in the mouth, difficulty in chewing, swallowing, or speaking, difficulty in opening the mouth, and changes in voice can indicate oral cancer. The risk of oral cancer is much higher in users of tobacco products such as gutka, khaini, zarda, bidi, and cigarettes compared to non-users. Therefore, individuals showing the above symptoms and tobacco users should undergo screening regularly.
Under the National Tobacco Control Programme, cancer screening and treatment facilities are provided free of cost. Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, or lips. Currently, 12 to 13 lakh people die every year in the country due to diseases caused by tobacco. In Madhya Pradesh, 37% of the population consumes some form of tobacco. There are various risks of cancer associated with tobacco. The incidents of oral cancer are highest in India. 18 to 20% of cancer patients in the country suffer from oral cancer. The increasing risk of tobacco affects children and youth under 18 years of age rapidly. Similarly, its consumption is also increasing rapidly among young women. Nicotine present in tobacco acts like poison in the body.
The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act, 2003, has been enacted by the Government of India to discourage the consumption of tobacco products. Therefore, it is essential for citizens to stay away from tobacco and tobacco products and prevent children and adolescents from its use. In case of any doubt or symptoms, a medical examination must be done without delay.