Quit Tobacco, Slash Cancer Risk: New Study Reveals

A study by Tata Memorial Centre reveals that quitting tobacco consumption cuts oral cavity cancer risk by over 60%. Research across five Indian centers showed significant risk reduction after 10 years of cessation, though risk remains higher than non-users. Findings may inform future government policies on tobacco cessation.

A pioneering study by Tata Memorial Centre has unveiled that halting tobacco use significantly slashes the risk of oral cavity cancer by more than 60%. The research examined data from five centers in India over a 12-year period and included both male and female participants aged 19 to 75.

Results highlighted that after a decade of quitting smoking and chewing tobacco, the risk for oral cancer decreases notably. Though still higher than lifelong non-users, the findings underscore the benefits of cessation, with current tobacco consumers reducing their risk by almost half.

The study's implications are far-reaching, suggesting that cessation should be a cornerstone of future government guidelines and intervention policies. Experts assert that not starting at all remains the best preventive measure.

(With inputs from agencies.)