LAHORE: In a significant public health awareness initiative aimed at tackling the growing burden of oral cancer in Pakistan, senior law enforcement officials, public representatives, and leading oral health specialists gathered in Lahore for a large-scale awareness session and walk organized by the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) Lahore Chapter.
The event brought together members of the dental fraternity, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, senior Punjab Police leadership, and policymakers on a unified platform to promote early awareness, prevention, and community engagement against oral cancer — a disease experts say continues to rise across Pakistan due to tobacco use, smokeless products, delayed diagnosis, and poor oral health awareness.
A key highlight of the event was an expert briefing delivered by renowned oral health professional Prof. Dr. Riaz Warraich, who addressed police officials and participants on the dangers, warning signs, and preventive strategies related to oral cancer.
According to participants, the session emphasized the importance of early detection and regular oral health screening, particularly among populations exposed to high-risk habits such as smoking, gutka, naswar, and other smokeless tobacco products.
Senior officials from the Punjab Police actively participated in the awareness campaign, including the Additional Inspector General (IG) Punjab Police, whose presence organizers described as a strong show of institutional support for public health initiatives.
The awareness walk was led by the DIG Establishment Punjab Police, alongside government representatives, healthcare professionals, and prominent oral and maxillofacial surgeons, reinforcing the growing collaboration between healthcare institutions and law enforcement agencies in advancing preventive health awareness.
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Organizers and participating specialists praised the initiative for bringing together diverse sectors to address a major but often under-discussed health challenge affecting thousands across the country.
Dental professionals participating in the event reiterated their commitment to supporting oral health protection initiatives for police personnel and the wider public, stressing that awareness campaigns remain essential in reducing the burden of oral cancer through timely diagnosis and education.
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The event also highlighted the increasing role of interdisciplinary partnerships in strengthening public health outreach and promoting healthier communities through education-driven campaigns.
Pakistan continues to face a high burden of oral cancer, particularly among populations with widespread tobacco and smokeless nicotine consumption, making awareness, screening, and preventive education critical components of national oral health efforts.
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