The initiative seeks to combat the rising incidence of oral cancer in India by encouraging individuals to perform a quick, two-minute self-examination using a mirror—turning a common object into a life-saving tool.

With 65% of oral cancer cases detected late, largely due to lack of awareness, the campaign emphasizes early detection through a simple practice: Feel, Look, and Act. By scanning for red or white patches, non-healing ulcers, unusual bleeding, persistent swelling, or voice changes, individuals can potentially identify warning signs early and seek medical consultation without delay.

As part of the initiative, mirrors will be strategically placed in hospital waiting areas to promote this self-check practice among visitors.

, , , said, “Head and neck cancer is the most common cancer among Indians, and oral cancer cases are rising at an alarming rate. People are unaware of the symptoms and don’t perform self-examinations. While self-checks for breast cancer are now routine, oral cancer awareness remains low. This campaign highlights how a two-minute mirror check every month can lead to early-stage diagnosis and significantly improve treatment outcomes.”

India has the highest number of head and neck cancer cases globally, with nearly 2 lakh new diagnoses annually. In 2022 alone, more than one lakh cases were attributed to lip and oral cavity cancer—comprising 65% of total cases—with 60–70% of these diagnosed at advanced stages (stage 3 or 4), severely limiting treatment options.

, , , added, “Early detection is the best prevention. LOOK at the entire mouth in the mirror for white or red patches or ulcers that don’t heal in 2 weeks. FEEL for lumps in the jaw or neck, hoarseness, or persistent pain. ACT quickly if you notice these signs. Early action increases the chances of a cure.”

Dr Delnaz J. Dhabhar, MD, Physician and Palliative Care Expert, B.N.D. Onco Centre, emphasized the role of early palliative care in oral cancer, saying, “Beyond early detection, timely palliative care improves quality of life. Pain management, nutrition, emotional counseling, and speech support are all vital. These services should be accessible and integrated early into treatment to help patients and families make informed decisions.”

The campaign also brings focus to common causes of oral cancer—tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and HPV infection—and the serious complications it can lead to, including difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and even breathing. Through sustained awareness and routine self-checks, Merck’s campaign aims to reduce the number of late-stage diagnoses and improve survival outcomes.