Oral cancer ranks eighth among the most common causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Oral and oropharyngeal cancers are reported to account for approximately 220000 new cases per year (5% of all cancers) worldwide. More than 180000 cases of oral cancer occur every year in South-East Asia; approximately 90% of which are due to smoking and smokeless tobacco usage. Depending on the different products, tobacco may contain more than 60 established or potential carcinogens that can increase the relative risk of cancer. 

As a dental professional, I understand that it's my duty to help people to quit tobacco through proper guidance and look out for any signs of potentially malignant disorders or oral cancerous lesions. As a responsible dentist, I would like to set an example by avoiding the use of tobacco products and motivate others to quit tobacco use. I will also create awareness about the consequences of tobacco use among public and emphasize on the prevention of oral cancer in all possible ways. I will contribute my part in creating a Tobacco-free Environment in the near future.