Health experts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have linked the excessive use of naswar, a form of smokeless tobacco, to a sharp increase in oral and dental cancer cases. In the past three months, the largest dental hospital in the province has diagnosed more than 35 patients with these serious conditions.
Dr. Bashir Rehman, a leading dental surgeon, has been treating many of these patients. He expressed deep concern over the widespread use of naswar in the region. According to Dr. Bashir, about 15 to 25 percent of the population uses naswar regularly, often without understanding the severe health risks involved. Naswar contains harmful chemicals, including lime, which directly contribute to the development of cancer.
Both local and branded varieties have become increasingly popular, further fueling the rise in cancer cases. Dr. Bashir stressed the urgent need to raise public awareness about the dangers of naswar. He pointed out that the chemicals in naswar play a direct role in the growing number of oral and dental cancer cases in the area.
Health Authorities Urge to Act Quickly
As the number of cancer cases continues to climb, health professionals are urging authorities to act quickly. They are calling for stricter regulations on the sale and use of naswar and emphasizing the importance of public health campaigns to educate people about its dangers. Without immediate intervention, they fear the situation will worsen, endangering even more lives.
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In short, the rise in oral and dental cancer cases in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has become a serious public health issue. Naswar use, once seen as a cultural habit, now poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of the population. Immediate action is needed to curb this dangerous trend and protect the people of the region from further harm.