Mumbai: In observance of World No Tobacco Day, Merck Specialties Pvt. Ltd., has launched a nationwide awareness campaign titled “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection.” At the heart of the campaign is a unique mirror-based standee designed to prompt individuals to perform a quick, two-minute self-examination each month for early signs of oral cancer.
The initiative, rolled out across partner hospitals in India, is also being amplified through a wide-reaching multi-channel strategy—including print, digital, and radio platforms—to ensure year-round public engagement.
Pratima Reddy, Managing Director, Merck Specialties Pvt. Ltd., said, “We believe that simple tools, when backed by scientific intent and strong communication, can transform preventive care. Our mirror-based standee is designed to engage people at the point of care, providing them with easy-to-understand visual cues and encouraging regular self-examination. Early detection saves lives, and this campaign aims to make that message a reality.”
With over 107,000 new oral cancer cases reported in India in 2022—accounting for more than 15% of male cancers—the burden remains high, especially as most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages (GLOBOCAN 2022, IARC).
Dr. Sudipto Chatterjee, Country Medical Director, Merck Specialties Pvt. Ltd., added, “This campaign not only educates but also actively involves the public in their own health journey. The mirror-on-standee concept combines medical insight with behavioral engagement. We’ve seen excellent responses from both hospitals and the general public, which affirms our belief in community-centered innovation.”
Designed to function similarly to a breast self-exam, the mirror standees incorporate visual aids and symptom checklists encouraging users to “LOOK – FEEL – ACT.” It guides them in identifying red flags such as persistent sores, red or white patches, unexplained bleeding, and difficulty speaking or swallowing.
Shantanu Rajput, Oncology Business Unit Head, Merck Specialties Pvt. Ltd., emphasized, “Just as breast self-examination has empowered early detection in women, we are committed to making oral self-check a routine habit. Our campaign uses the ‘LOOK – FEEL – ACT’ message to help people take charge of their health in a simple, time-efficient way.”
The campaign is being implemented across several hospitals, supported by a growing network of oncologists nationwide. Early feedback from medical professionals indicates that the standees have sparked increased patient inquiries and interest in oral cancer awareness.
With social media videos, influencer partnerships, hospital talks, and traditional media backing the effort, the “Two-Minute Action” campaign is emerging as a significant public health movement.
Dr. Chatterjee concluded, “This campaign is resonating with both the public and healthcare professionals. It’s inspiring to see patients and families actively engaging with the concept. That’s the kind of proactive health culture we aim to nurture.”
The “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection” initiative is Merck Specialties’ flagship awareness campaign aimed at reducing late-stage diagnosis of oral cancer in India. By encouraging regular self-checks and supporting healthcare partnerships, the campaign reinforces Merck’s ongoing commitment to early detection, patient education, and community health impact.
