Daijiworld Media Network - Kochi
Kochi, May 20: Kerala has launched a large-scale statewide initiative to strengthen the early detection of oral cancer by transforming thousands of dental clinics into frontline screening centres, in what healthcare experts describe as one of the most extensive community-based oral cancer surveillance programmes in the state.
The campaign is being carried out under the CanWin initiative led by the Indian Dental Association with support from VPS Lakeshore Hospital, the Chittilappilly Foundation and several healthcare partners.
At the core of the programme is the Oral Lesion Surveillance Program (OLSP), which aims to convert nearly 6,500 dental clinics across Kerala into early oral cancer detection units through systematic screening, patient documentation and referral mechanisms.
Medical experts associated with the initiative said oral cancer continues to be one of India’s most serious public health concerns because a large number of patients seek specialist treatment only after the disease reaches an advanced stage.
Dr. Eapen Thomas said the initiative focuses on shifting attention towards preventive screening and early diagnosis at the community level rather than relying solely on late-stage treatment.
According to national cancer estimates, oral cancer accounts for almost 30 per cent of all cancer cases reported in India, with more than 70 per cent of patients being diagnosed only after the disease has significantly progressed. Doctors say early identification greatly improves survival rates and treatment success.
The programme recognises dental clinics as a crucial point for cancer surveillance, as many individuals routinely visit dentists for oral healthcare, creating opportunities to identify suspicious lesions at an early stage.
Dr. Moni Abraham Kuriakose noted that delayed diagnosis remains one of the biggest challenges in treating oral cancer and stressed the need for identifying symptoms much earlier and closer to where patients first seek medical care.
Dr. Aswin Mullath said the initiative seeks to make oral cancer screening a standard part of regular dental consultations so that suspected cases can be quickly referred to specialists for further evaluation.
Healthcare experts involved in the programme believe community-level screening can significantly reduce the number of advanced oral cancer cases in Kerala over time.
The project, estimated to cost around Rs 50 lakh, is being funded through institutional partnerships and philanthropic support. Officials added that financial assistance will also be provided to economically weaker patients requiring treatment through funds generated under the initiative.