On the occasion of World Cancer Day (4 February 2026) and the ongoing World Oral Health Day 2026 campaign: “A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Life”, the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Government Dental College and Hospital, Mumbai, organized a Cancer Awareness Program for Youth focusing on Oral Cancer Prevention, Early Detection, and Tobacco Cessation at Guru Nanak Secondary School, Wadala East, Sion.
The program aimed to create awareness among students about the harmful effects of tobacco use and the importance of early detection of oral cancer.
Target Population
Youth and students of Guru Nanak College of Arts, Science & Commerce.
Number of Beneficiaries
100 students were trained in oral cancer awareness, early detection, and tobacco cessation strategies.
Objectives
- De-glamorize Tobacco: Present evidence-based information on the harmful effects of smoking and smokeless tobacco.
- Early Detection Literacy: Educate students to recognize early warning signs of oral cancer in themselves and others.
- Cessation Advocacy: Encourage open discussion on nicotine dependence and provide guidance and resources for quitting tobacco.
- Lifestyle Empowerment: Promote healthy lifestyle practices, including regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene.
Activities Conducted:
The program was designed to be interactive and impactful, moving away from traditional lectures toward a dialogue-based approach delivered by the interns of the department:
1. "Recognize the Signs" Workshop
2. Tobacco Cessation Counseling (TCC) for Youth
3. Preventive Oral Health Maintenance
The initiative helped empower youth with knowledge and awareness, enabling them to make informed decisions that contribute to oral cancer prevention and overall well-being.
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Information
Guru Teg Bahadur Nagar
Mumbai 400037
Maharashtra
India