India, May 26 -- For 38-year-old Mahesh (name changed) from Kalahandi district, he had no idea a simple ulcer in his mouth could bring a troublesome health journey. What began as a minor sore and irritation in the left buccal mucosa (left side of the mouth's cheek) became something far more serious. It persisted for 3 months, slowly spreading to his jawbone and causing difficulty in opening his mouth, making him seek medical attention at Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar.

At the hospital, Mahesh underwent thorough clinical examinations and specific investigations, including a CT scan and biopsy, which revealed a much graver diagnosis: advanced oral cavity cancer with significant jawbone involvement. Given the complexity of the condition, a m...