(by Dr. Parul Dua Makkar)

Oral cancer remains one of the most devastating yet overlooked cancers worldwide. Each year, tens of thousands are diagnosed, often too late—when treatment options are limited, survival rates are lower, and quality of life is drastically impacted. Unlike other cancers with widespread awareness campaigns, oral cancer still lags behind. The truth is simple: early detection saves lives.

When oral cancer is caught in its earliest stages, survival rates can be as high as 80–90%. But when detected late, the five-year survival rate drops dramatically, often below 50%. The heartbreaking reality is that this disease can often be spotted during a simple head and neck exam. This makes education and vigilance essential—not just for dentists, but for hygienists, assistants, nurses, and every member of the healthcare team.

This mission is deeply personal to me. My younger brother, Dr. Manu Dua, was only 34 when he passed away from oral cancer. Manu was a brilliant dentist with a vibrant future ahead of him. His loss was not only devastating for our family, but also a stark reminder of how unforgiving this disease can be when it isn’t caught early. His story fuels my commitment to raise awareness and to empower healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize early signs.

Oral cancer detection is more than a statistic. Early diagnosis often means patients avoid the disfiguring surgeries, extensive radiation, or chemotherapy required in advanced cases. They retain their ability to eat, speak, and smile – basic functions many of us take for granted. Families are spared the heartbreak of watching a loved one suffer unnecessarily.

Every member of a care team plays a role. From the clinical staff performing exams to the front desk team reinforcing patient education, each interaction can create opportunities for awareness and prevention. By teaching healthcare professionals to look beyond routine check-ups and treat every visit as a potential screening, we create a ripple effect that saves lives.

Oral cancer is not rare. Rates are rising, especially among younger patients due to HPV-related cases. Yet it remains one of the least discussed and least screened cancers. We cannot shift these numbers unless we commit to broader education, stronger communication, and more consistent screening practices across disciplines.

This is my life’s work and the legacy Manu leaves behind. Through education, advocacy, and awareness, we have the power to change the story for future patients and their families. Because when we catch oral cancer early, we don’t just save lives – we preserve futures. And that may be the most important job of all.

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Connect with Parul to learn more about the Dua Good Job (TM) course, which was built to help healthcare providers across disciplines understand oral cancer in a comprehensive way.

Written by Dr. Parul Dua Makkar