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Published : 11 May, 2026
Dr. A.K. Dewan, Director of Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC, warns that the rising incidence of oral cancer among young Indians in their 20s and 30s is increasingly linked to the consumption of flavored tobacco and certain mouth fresheners. He highlights that products like “pan masala” often contain areca nut (supari), a classified carcinogen that can lead to oral submucous fibrosis, a precursor to cancer. Dr. Dewan explains that the habit of keeping these products in the mouth for extended periods allows harmful chemicals to damage the oral lining directly, debunking the myth that flavored or smokeless options are safer alternatives to conventional cigarettes. He urges individuals not to ignore early warning signs such as non-healing ulcers or white patches and emphasizes that early detection and avoiding tobacco in all forms are critical for prevention.
