A Conversation at Amrit Dhara – Why Prevention Must Walk Hand in Hand with Palliative Care for Oral Cancers in Odisha

I recently had the privilege of spending time at Amrit Dhara with Dr. Mami Parija, a Devi Awardee, and her incredible team. Our discussion, though informal, touched on some of the most pressing and emotional realities of cancer care in Odisha.

What came up quickly in our exchange was the alarming prevalence of oral cancer in Odisha, and more importantly, the fact that most cases are diagnosed at Stage IV. It’s a stage where curative options are few and suffering is immense.

That’s where palliative care becomes critical. Not as an afterthought, but from the very point of diagnosis. It’s not just about easing pain—it’s about restoring dignity, offering emotional support, and helping families navigate an incredibly difficult journey. The anguish is real, and the guilt is often overwhelming. I’ve heard patients say:

“Why didn’t anyone tell me tobacco was this dangerous?”
“Why couldn’t someone help me quit?”

These aren’t isolated voices. They represent a collective regret that society could have done more, earlier.

We also reflected on how tobacco addiction is no longer a ‘bad habit’—it’s a medical condition, one that can and must be treated like any other chronic disease. The path from addiction to cessation is scientific and structured, and support is available.

At ICanCaRe, we’ve been working on campaigns like ‘SAVE the Youth’, which focuses on:

  • KNOW TOBACCO – Spreading awareness of the real risks

  • CHOTA DHANA – Behavioral nudges to resist first use

  • STAGE ZERO detection – Identifying lesions before they become cancer

  • Tobacco Cessation (QUIT) – Structured, evidence-based treatment for all users

Yet, even as we continue these efforts, the need for palliative care cannot be overlooked. For thousands already diagnosed late, it remains their only refuge.

But perhaps the most important realization we shared that day was this: Prevention and early detection must become our collective priority. They are the only true solutions that can save lives, reduce financial burden, and protect the environment in the long run.

Our conversation ended not with a conclusion, but with a renewed sense of responsibility.

It’s time for governments, corporates (through CSR), and healthcare systems to channel energy and resources into preventive models. Because every life saved early is a journey spared from unnecessary suffering.

 #ICanCaRe #OralCancer #PreventiveHealth #PalliativeCare #PublicHealth #CSR #TobaccoCessation #CancerAwareness #SaveTheYouth #amritdhara #odisha

Author: Prof. Dr. Pawan Gupta M.Ch.

Founder –  ICanCaRe

Sr. Director – MAX Vaishali

Oral Cancer Surgeon | Tobacco Cessation Expert

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/meaningful-exchange-amrit-dhara-reflections-preventive-care-el5vc

PROFILE of PAWAN GUPTA

www.linkedin.com/in/drpawangupta

www.drpawangupta.in

pawan@icancare.com

Tobacco Awareness Session at Prometheus School, Noida – February 12, 2025

🚭 Tobacco Awareness Session at Prometheus School, Noida – February 12, 2025

A powerful awareness session was conducted at Prometheus School, Noida, engaging 200 students in a critical discussion on the dangers of tobacco and vaping.

🔹 Organized by the Interact Club, led by Samaera Rana and Arush, the event was chaired by Mr. Mukesh Sharma, Chairman of the institution.
🔹 The session emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards all forms of tobacco use, including vaping.
🔹 As a recognition of her leadership in promoting the cause, Samaera Rana was honored with the Tobacco MARSHAL Cap, Badge, and Mug by Akansha Sethi.

The message was clear: Say NO to tobacco and vaping – for a healthier future! 🚫🚭

Watch the instagram reel – https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGBHbllyuKK/?igsh=MWZrY2hrbjIxZXpnZg==

 

Album : https://photos.app.goo.gl/VevYCymkKEYp1Vw9A

 

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/posts/drpawangupta_tobacco-awareness-session-at-prometheus-activity-7296312971679473664-Cw83?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAANHt9AB9iqkQy108pFZnFtWwn520XpfHZE

 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1B7tXXEf22/




WORLD CANCER DAY – UNITED BY UNIQUE

On WORLD CANCER DAY, a special session focused on the holistic integration of cancer care took place under the theme – UNITED by UNIQUE. The session showcased experts from Ayurveda and allopathy coming together to enhance patient care. It’s a call to unite and combine the strengths of each discipline for the benefit of our patients. Together, we strive to create more cancer Winners, in alignment with the vision of I CAN WIN FOUNDATION and ICanCaRe. ICanCaRe unique strength for oral care and tobacco cessation is unique for integration to cancer care!!!

Acknowledgements to Dr. Akhlesh Bhargava for spearheading this impactful event. Let’s continue to work together toward a brighter future in cancer care. #WorldCancerDay #HolisticCare #PatientWellness #icancare #cancerwinners #icanwinfoundation #unitedbyunique