An Examination of Oral Cancer Screening Among Men in India

The rising burden of non-communicable diseases is posing a new challenge for developing countries, including India. Among these diseases, cancer, especially oral cancer, is becoming a major cause of concern. This study aims to highlight the current state of oral cancer screening among men in India, using data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019 and 2021. The findings reveal that a very small proportion of men have actually undergone oral cancer screening. Notably, men from Andhra Pradesh and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands show higher cavity screening rates than men from other states across India. Furthermore, factors such as age, tobacco consumption habits, and economic status have been identified as key determinants of oral cavity screening. The geographical locations of the respondents are also significantly associated with oral cavity screening patterns in India. Given the increased risk due to higher tobacco usage among men, there is an urgent need to strengthen efforts aimed at oral cancer screening. It is imperative to enhance awareness, accessibility, and affordability of oral health services at the local level, in order to reduce the financial burden on households. The government of India has already implemented flagship programs like Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centre (AB-HWC) to alleviate the financial burden and promote a healthier lifestyle. It is crucial to extend these initiatives to rural and remote regions, ensuring that access to oral cancer screening reaches every corner of the population. This approach aligns with the broader objective of achieving Sustainable Development Goals.