A leading oncologist from the prestigious All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has issued a stark warning after treating a 65-year-old woman whose long-term neglect of dental care resulted in a devastating and disfiguring jaw tumor. The case of Madhumita Das underscores a growing and alarming trend: oral cancer is now the third most common cancer among women in India.
From a Hidden Lump to a Life-Altering Tumor
For years, Madhumita Das, a resident of Kanpur, paid little attention to her oral health. She brushed her teeth only once a day, often went to bed without cleaning her mouth after eating sweets, and ignored untreated cavities and periodic gum infections. This poor dental hygiene set the stage for a serious health crisis.
The first signs of trouble emerged in the mid-2000s. After her husband passed away in 2005, a tumor developed in her lower left jaw. It was surgically removed in 2008, costing her a portion of her jawbone and requiring artificial teeth. For over a decade, she lived in relative peace.
However, the swelling returned silently. Madhumita noticed the change but chose to hide it from her family, a common tendency among her generation to avoid burdening children. By early 2024, the lump had grown rapidly, altering the contour of the left side of her face.
A Race Against Time at AIIMS Delhi
When dentists saw her scans, they urgently referred the family to an oncologist. Dr. MD Ray, Professor of Surgical Oncology at the Institute of Rotary Cancer Hospital, AIIMS Delhi, diagnosed an aggressive mandibular tumor. The growth had completely eroded her jawbone tissues.
Dr. Ray emphasized that further delay was dangerous. "The doctor told us it was not wise to hold out surgery any longer as the tumor could spread to the cheek muscles and deform her face. It could also turn malignant if we delayed it," recounted her daughter, Manshree.
Dr. Ray classified it as a high-grade, fast-growing tumor with high destructive potential, falling under the broad category of oral cancer care despite initial biopsy reports labeling it as non-cancerous.
The Complex Surgery and Painful Recovery
In November 2024, Madhumita underwent a major, complex surgery at AIIMS Delhi. Surgeons removed the aggressive tumor and reconstructed her jaw using a free fibula graft—taking bone from her right leg and shaping it to form a new mandible. A plastic surgery team was crucial in the facial reconstruction.
Her recovery was arduous. She spent five days in the ICU and required weeks of intensive care at home. For the first 45 days post-surgery, she was on a strict liquid diet of soups, purees, and juices. Her nutrition was meticulously monitored to ensure adequate protein for healing, followed by physiotherapy.
The Critical Link Between Hygiene and Oral Cancer
Dr. Ray and the family identify poor oral hygiene as the significant aggravating factor in this case. Neglect allowed harmful bacteria to thrive, leading to chronic inflammation and gum disease.
"Poor dental hygiene triggers gum infection in the mouth. This means chronic inflammation, which weakens the immune system locally, creating a space for harmful pathogens to thrive, damage tissues, and trigger mutations in cells," explained Dr. Ray. Research shows these bacteria produce toxins that can induce DNA changes.
Studies indicate that around 25-29% of all oral cancer cases in India are women, many without traditional risk factors like tobacco or alcohol. Factors like Human Papillomavirus (HPV), chewing betel quid, hormonal shifts, nutrient deficiencies, and chronic irritation from dental issues can all damage DNA and lead to tumors.
A Cautionary Tale and a Call to Action
Today, Madhumita is recovering. She exercises daily, eats soft foods, and maintains rigorous oral hygiene, rinsing her mouth multiple times a day. Her journey carries a powerful message.
"This could have been treated much earlier," laments her daughter Manshree. "If she had spoken up, if we had reached an oncologist sooner, things might not have gone this far."
Dr. Ray stresses that this case highlights the urgent need for early detection, specialized cancer care, and consistent oral hygiene in a country where oral diseases are often dismissed until they become severe. Regular dental check-ups and immediate attention to any unusual swelling or sore in the mouth are no longer optional but essential for prevention.
