"Dr Zubair Ahemad MDS Fasciomaxillary and Reconstructive Surgery Boon Cancer Hospital Akola, Sounds Alarm on Rising Oral Cancer Cases"
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| Dr Zubair Ahemad MDS Award Recieved from CEO ZILLA PARISHAD & DISTRICT COLLECTOR Mr Ajit Kumbhar IAS at Award Ceremony Akola |
Akola Maharashtra, Report by Tamsil Shahezad Khan - As India grapples with one of the highest rates of oral cancer globally, Dr. Zubair Ahemad, a distinguished oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Boon Cancer Hospital in Akola, is leading a crucial awareness campaign to educate communities about the devastating impact of tobacco and gutka consumption on oral health.
The Silent Epidemic
Oral cancer has emerged as one of the most common cancers in India, accounting for approximately 30% of all cancer cases in the country. Dr. Ahemad emphasizes that this alarming statistic is largely preventable, as the majority of oral cancer cases are directly linked to tobacco use in various forms.
"What we're witnessing is a preventable tragedy," states Dr. Ahemad. "Every day, I see patients whose lives could have been saved with early detection and lifestyle changes. The correlation between gutka, tobacco consumption, and oral cancer is undeniable."
Understanding the Risk Factors
Primary Culprits:
- Gutka and Pan Masala : These products contain carcinogenic substances that cause direct cellular damage
- Smokeless Tobacco : Including khaini, zarda, and snuff
- Smoking : Cigarettes, bidis, and pipes
- Alcohol Consumption: Particularly when combined with tobacco use
- Poor Oral Hygiene : Chronic irritation from ill-fitting dentures or sharp teeth
Critical Precautions for High-Risk Individuals
Dr. Ahemad outlines essential preventive measures for those currently using or considering quitting tobacco products:
Immediate Action Steps:
1. Complete Cessation : Immediately stop all forms of tobacco and gutka consumption
2. Regular Oral Examinations : Monthly self-examinations and bi-annual professional checkups
3. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and use antiseptic mouthwash
4. Dietary Modifications : Increase intake of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants
5. Hydration : Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from the system
Warning Signs to Watch For:
- Persistent mouth ulcers lasting more than two weeks
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or persistent sore throat
- Unexplained bleeding from the mouth
- Numbness in the tongue or mouth
- Loosening of teeth without apparent cause
- Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene
Professional Treatment and Support
Boon Cancer Hospital has established a comprehensive oral cancer screening and treatment program under Dr. Ahemad's leadership. The facility offers:
- Free Screening Camps : Regular community outreach programs
- Advanced Diagnostic Services : Including biopsy and imaging studies
- Multidisciplinary Treatment : Combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy
- Rehabilitation Services : Speech therapy and prosthetic support
- Counseling Services : Tobacco cessation programs and psychological support
Community Outreach and Awareness Campaigns
Social Media Initiatives:
Dr. Ahemad and Boon Cancer Hospital are leveraging digital platforms to spread awareness:
- Educational Videos : Featuring real patient stories and medical insights
- Interactive Q&A Sessions : Live discussions about oral cancer prevention
- Infographic Campaigns : Visual content highlighting risk factors and symptoms
- Hashtag Movements : #QuitGutka, #OralCancerAwareness, #HealthyMouthHealthyLife
Traditional Media Engagement:
- Radio Programs : Weekly health talks in local languages
- Newspaper Columns : Regular articles in regional publications
- Television Interviews : Participation in health-focused programs
- Community Presentations : Talks at schools, colleges, and workplaces
Government and Policy Advocacy
Dr. Ahemad is actively collaborating with local authorities to:
- Strengthen Enforcement : Of existing tobacco control laws
- Expand No-Tobacco Zones : Around educational institutions and public spaces
- Increase Taxation : On tobacco products to reduce accessibility
- Mandate Warning Labels : With graphic images on all tobacco products
- Support Cessation Programs : Through public health initiatives
The Economic Impact
"Oral cancer doesn't just destroy lives; it devastates families economically," explains Dr. Ahemad. "Treatment costs can range from ₹2-10 lakhs, while prevention costs virtually nothing. We must shift our focus from treatment to prevention."
Success Stories and Hope
The campaign has already shown promising results:
- 40% reduction in gutka sales in targeted areas
- Increased early detection rates by 25%
- Over 500 individuals successfully quit tobacco through the program
- Community leaders becoming vocal advocates against tobacco use
Call to Action
Dr. Ahemad issues an urgent appeal to the community: "Every individual has the power to prevent oral cancer. Whether you're a current user looking to quit, a family member supporting a loved one, or a community leader with influence, your action matters."
How You Can Help:
1. Share Information : Use your social media platforms to spread awareness
2. Support Quit Attempts : Encourage and assist friends and family in cessation efforts
3. Report Illegal Sales : Help authorities identify vendors selling tobacco to minors
4. Participate in Screenings : Attend free screening camps and encourage others
5. Advocate for Policy : Support stronger tobacco control measures in your community
Looking Forward
Boon Cancer Hospital plans to expand its awareness campaign to neighboring districts, with goals to establish satellite screening centers and train local healthcare workers in early detection techniques.
"Our vision is a tobacco-free Maharashtra, leading to a significant reduction in oral cancer cases," concludes Dr. Ahemad. "With community support, government cooperation, and individual commitment, this goal is achievable."
For More Information:
- Free Screening Appointments : Contact Boon Cancer Hospital, Akola
- Tobacco Cessation Support : Call the hospital's helpline
- Educational Materials : Available at www.booncancerhospital.org
- Emergency Consultations: Available 24/7 for urgent cases
About Dr. Zubair Ahemad:
Dr. Zubair Ahemad, MDS in Fasciomaxillary & Reconstructive Surgery, is a leading oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Boon Cancer Hospital, Akola. With 9 years of experience in cancer treatment and prevention, he has dedicated his career to fighting oral cancer through clinical excellence and community education.
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