A major statewide initiative aimed at strengthening early detection of oral cancer has been launched in Kerala, bringing together dental professionals, cancer specialists and healthcare institutions in what is being described as one of the largest community-level oral cancer surveillance efforts in the state.

The programme is being implemented under CanWin, an initiative spearheaded by the Indian Dental Association with support from VPS Lakeshore Hospital, the Chittilappilly Foundation and other healthcare partners, officials said on Tuesday.