Puneet Sharma, Cancer Survivor, Founder of Cancer24x7, shared on Linkedin:
“Every Cancer Story Has a Lesson.
At Cancer 24×7, we listen to many patients and survivors.
Every story is different.
But every story teaches us something.
Recently, I heard two stories that made me think about something we often overlook – our oral health.
One woman noticed a blister/lesion inside her mouth. She ignored it for months. By the time she sought medical attention, her condition was much more serious, and she was diagnosed with advanced cancer.
Another woman had severe, unexplained ear pain. She consulted three ENT specialists but eventually visited a dentist. She was then advised to get evaluated for possible signs of oral cancer.
These stories don’t mean that every blister or earache is cancer.
They teach us something much simpler:
Don’t ignore what your body keeps trying to tell you.
- A mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal.
- An unusual lump.
- Persistent bleeding.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Unexplained numbness.
- Persistent mouth pain.
- Or even unexplained, persistent ear pain.
These symptoms can have many causes – but when something is persistent or unusual, it deserves attention.
And that’s why I believe we need to talk more about Dental Oncology.
We often think cancer care starts with an oncologist.
But sometimes, a dentist may notice something that others have missed.
So, let’s listen to patients.
Let’s learn from survivors.
Let’s ask questions.
And most importantly-
Let’s not ignore the small signs simply because they seem small.
Because sometimes, a story shared by one patient can protect another person.
Every survivor’s story has a lesson.
We just need to listen.
Cancer24x7 – Sharing is Caring.”
Other articles featuring Puneet Sharma on OncoDaily.
Puneet Sharma was recognized among OncoDaily’s “100 Influential Cancer Survivors on Social Media: 2026 Edition” list.
Nominations for 100 Influential People in Oncology 2026 are now open, recognizing leaders, researchers, clinicians, innovators, advocates, and other individuals making a meaningful impact on oncology and cancer care.
Don’t miss the opportunity to nominate yourself, a colleague, or someone whose contributions deserve to be recognized.
Submit your nomination by September 15.
