LAHORE: de’Montmorency College of Dentistry organized a high-impact Oral Cancer Awareness Walk on Fort Road, Lahore, emphasizing the importance of early detection and preventive measures against oral cancer. The Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) Lahore Chapter actively participated in the event, standing in solidarity to spread awareness about the risks, symptoms, and screening importance of this life-threatening disease.
Oral cancer remains a growing public health concern, with thousands of new cases reported annually. The primary risk factors include betel nut (chhalia), gutka, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to UV rays. Early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, making awareness initiatives crucial in combating this disease.
A Collective Effort for a Critical Cause
The awareness walk was led by Principal Prof. Dr. Nabeela Riaz, along with prominent faculty members, senior professors, house officers, residents, cancer survivors, social activists, and general public participants. The President of PDA Lahore Chapter Dr. Tahir Mahmood along with Finance Secretary Dr. Shehzad actively participated in the walk and extended their full support. The walk aimed to educate people about oral cancer symptoms, risk factors, and the necessity of regular screenings.
Other notable participants included Prof. Dr. M. Saeed (Former Principal), Prof. Dr. Waheed Al Hamid (Former Principal), Prof. Dr. Shahid Ali (Senior Faculty Member), Dr. Hafiz Shakir (Ex-Medical Superintendent), Dr. Farrah Hamid (Medical Superintendent, Punjab Dental Hospital), Mansoor Ahmed (SP City Lahore, Lahore Police) among others.
All speakers stressed the importance of early detection and encouraged the public to undergo regular screenings to prevent oral cancer progression. They also highlighted the urgent need for maxillofacial specialists at every healthcare level to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.
During the event, Dr. Tahir Mahmood, President of PDA Lahore Chapter, reinforced the association’s commitment to promoting oral health and advocated for stronger government policies to address oral cancer prevention. He stressed that public-private partnerships and dental health advocacy groups must work together to create lasting impact.
Spreading Awareness for a Healthier Future
The massive turnout and active participation from the dental community, PDA Lahore, healthcare professionals, and the general public showcased a strong commitment to fighting oral cancer. The walk concluded with a collective pledge to raise awareness, encourage preventive measures, and push for policy-level interventions to curb the rising incidence of oral cancer in Pakistan.
Key Takeaways from the Awareness Walk:
✅ Avoid harmful habits like betel nut, gutka, tobacco, and alcohol consumption.
✅ Regular oral screenings can save lives by enabling early detection.
✅ Public awareness campaigns are crucial in reducing oral cancer cases.
✅ Government intervention is needed to appoint maxillofacial specialists at all healthcare levels.
This initiative by de’Montmorency College of Dentistry, with active participation from PDA Lahore, marks a significant step towards a cancer-free future through education, prevention, and early detection.