Apollo Cancer Centre in Madurai has launched a dedicated oral cancer screening programme to address the rise in oral cancer cases.

Doctors informed that the programme offered screening at ₹499, which includes a detailed visual and tactile oral examination by specialized oncologists and ENT surgeons.

In addition, patients who undergo this screening would be eligible for discounted rates on inpatient treatments, ensuring a seamless and cost-effective care journey for those needing further evaluation or treatment, they added.

About 77,000 new cases and 52,000 deaths are reported annually due to the cancer which was driven by tobacco consumption. Among the total, India bears one-third of the global burden of oral cancer, said the doctors during a press meet on June 3, 2025.

Surgical Oncologist K. Balu Mahendra said that the tobacco users faced six to seven times higher risks of developing oral cancer.

Early detection through regular oral screenings was critical to saving lives and improving treatment outcomes, he added.

ENT, Head, Neck and Endoscopic Skull Base Surgeons P. Meena Priyadarshini and G. Arun Prabhu Ganesan emphasized that: “The buccal mucosa and tongue are among the most commonly affected areas. Unfortunately, symptoms are often ignored, especially in underserved regions. Our programme empowers individuals with timely screening and intervention.”