Medanta Urges Lucknow to ‘Taalo Mat Pehchaano’ with New Oral Cancer Awareness Campaign
should not be ignored. A sore or ulcer that does not heal, an unusual white or red patch in the mouth, or a wound that persists for more than two weeks can sometimes indicate an underlying serious condition. Through its new awareness campaign, ‘Taalo Mat Pehchaano’, Medanta is encouraging people to recognise such warning signs early and seek timely medical advice instead of delaying consultation.
Around 1.4 lakh people are diagnosed with oral cancer in India every year, translating to nearly 400 cases a day. The campaign highlights key risk factors, including chewing tobacco, smoking and alcohol consumption, along with poor oral hygiene, pre-cancerous oral lesions, sharp teeth and ill-fitting dentures.
Early Detection Can Make a Difference
Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman & Managing Director, Medanta Gurugram, said that healthcare institutions have an important role in making health awareness a part of everyday life. He emphasised that a sore or ulcer that remains for two weeks or longer should not be taken lightly and may require medical evaluation.
Through ‘Taalo Mat Pehchaano’, Medanta aims to encourage people to ask questions, seek professional advice and act before a condition progresses. Early action, he noted, can help improve individual health outcomes and contribute to healthier communities.
Dr. Rakesh Kapoor, Medical Director, Medanta Lucknow, said, “Early detection is the greatest protection against oral cancer.” He urged people to pay attention to non-healing ulcers, white or red patches and other unusual changes in the mouth.
He also advised people to avoid tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy habits, undergo regular check-ups and consult specialists whenever concerning symptoms appear.
Interactive Oral Cancer Awareness Zone at Medanta Lucknow
As part of the initiative, Medanta has established an Interactive Oral Cancer Awareness Zone at its Lucknow hospital. The zone features educational material designed to help visitors understand oral cancer risk factors and recognise potential warning signs.
The campaign was inaugurated on August 27, 2026, by Dr. Rakesh Kapoor, Medical Director, along with the Oncology team at Medanta Lucknow.
‘S.M.I.L.E. Check’ to Help Identify Warning Signs
A key component of the campaign is the S.M.I.L.E. Check, a simple mnemonic designed to make the warning signs of oral cancer easier to recognise and remember:
- S – Sores: Sores or ulcers that do not heal
- M – Mouth patches: White or red patches in the mouth
- I – Ill-fitting dentures: Dentures that do not fit properly
- L – Loose teeth: Teeth that become loose
- E – Eating difficulty: Difficulty while eating
The campaign also promotes the ‘2-Week Rule’. If a sore, ulcer or unusual patch in the mouth persists for more than 14 days, it should not be ignored and should be evaluated by a qualified specialist.
Awareness Can Help Reduce Treatment Burden
Dr. Vivekanand Singh, Director, Head & Neck Onco Surgery, Cancer Care, Medanta Lucknow, said that oral cancer is frequently detected late because its early symptoms are often overlooked.
He said that timely action can potentially improve outcomes, reduce the burden of treatment and help preserve quality of life. The campaign seeks to simplify the warning signs so that people can take the first step towards medical care without unnecessary delay.
Digital Awareness Initiative
Medanta has also released a digital film and a doctor-led informative video on oral cancer through social media platforms. The content focuses on recognising changes in the mouth and seeking medical advice before symptoms become severe.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Oral Cancer Care
At Medanta, oral cancer treatment follows a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from different fields, including:
- ENT and Head & Neck Surgery
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Oncology
- Dental Care
- Nutrition
- Rehabilitation and Restorative Care
This integrated approach enables personalised treatment while also addressing speech, functionality, rehabilitation and long-term quality of life.
The ‘Taalo Mat Pehchaano’ campaign builds on Medanta’s earlier cancer awareness initiatives focused on prevention, early detection and timely treatment, including campaigns around breast and prostate cancer.
People seeking medical guidance or wishing to connect with specialists can contact Medanta’s dedicated helpline at 88-0000-1068.