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When white patches in his mouth signalled trouble, Mr Trilochan Sharma chose swift, personalised treatment in Singapore, completing his journey from diagnosis to remission in just one year.

When Mr Sharma first noticed white patches in his mouth in 2022, he did not think much of it. But when the patches spread rapidly, concern set in. A reserved man, he confided in only a few close family members. One cousin offered an unexpected piece of advice: “Go straight to Singapore for treatment.”

“In India, oral cancer has a high incidence because of tobacco use,” Mr Sharma said. “I already suspected what it was. I had seen people around me who had that cancer, relapsed after treatment, and ultimately did not survive.”

For him, time was the most precious commodity. “Cancer doesn’t give you a second chance,” he added. “We have lost people dear to us because their treatment journeys were not optimal. They went from one doctor to another, hoping for a better prognosis each time, but lost valuable time in the process. I decided I would not experiment. I would commit to one doctor, recommended by someone I trust.”

CHOOSING CERTAINTY OVER HESITATION

In his experience, treatment decisions in India can sometimes take longer—not due to a lack of expertise, but because families often consult widely with relatives and friends. “The more advice you get, the harder it becomes to make a decision, because everyone has different stories and recommendations,” he explained.

India’s vast size and population also mean hospitals face heavy patient loads. With many healthcare providers of varying standards, patients often have to navigate different approaches to care, with many centres prioritising surgery as a first treatment option.

But cancer is different for every individual. Mr Sharma understood the need for a personalised approach. His cousin’s recommendation led him to a cancer centre in Singapore, where cancer care plans are customised for each patient’s condition. For oral cancers, for instance, doctors may recommend neoadjuvant chemotherapy—treatment before surgery—to shrink the tumour and improve long-term outcomes.

SWIFT ACTION, COMPASSIONATE CARE

CanHOPE plays a vital role in supporting international patients throughout their journey. In India, CanHOPE New Delhi offers counselling to help patients manage anxiety before treatment and provides logistical support to make travel abroad as smooth as possible.

With support from CanHOPE New Delhi, the difference was clear from the moment Mr Sharma arrived in Singapore. From initial tests to diagnosis and the start of treatment, everything was completed within 48 hours.

“The speed was incredible,” Mr Sharma recalled. “From the very first consultation, I felt full confidence in my medical team. The staff were compassionate and professional, and I felt I was in the right hands.”

While the cost of treatment in Singapore was significantly higher than in India, Mr Sharma and his wife agreed that the peace of mind was invaluable. “One thing our fellow Indian citizens can do is take up insurance policies that cover international medical treatment,” Mrs Sharma said. “That would help with the cost and allow access to the care you feel is right for you.”

STOIC STRENGTH

Determined not to burden his family with worry, Mr Sharma initially travelled to Singapore for treatment alone. “I just told my wife and children I needed to take a trip,” he said.

For Mr Sharma, it is a matter of acceptance. “I believe in destiny. Whatever will happen, will happen,” he said. “But I will follow the doctor’s advice to give myself the best chance.”

The first two months of therapy were especially challenging. Radiotherapy caused painful sores in his mouth, forcing him to receive nutrition through a feeding tube. Despite the discomfort, he remained stoic.

“My husband is a very calm person,” Mrs Sharma said. “Unlike many people, he doesn’t panic. We only found out about his condition when I noticed his hair loss during a video call. After that, I told him I would accompany him for every treatment.”

Within a year of starting treatment, Mr Sharma was declared cancer-free. Today, he continues with immunotherapy to further reduce the risk of recurrence. His daily routine includes two hours at the gym, a testament to his commitment to recovery and health.

“We have seen people pass away just months after a diagnosis,” Mrs Sharma reflected. “I think having a positive mindset is very important. He takes life one day at a time, without dwelling on the illness. That makes a difference.”

LESSONS FOR OTHERS

Looking back, Mr Sharma believes that early, decisive action is critical. “Don't delay in your home country,” he advised. “Come to Singapore early for an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. Surgery isn’t always the first step, and even with surgery, cancer can relapse. What matters is fast, precise care.”

His experience reinforces the value of choosing a healthcare provider you can trust. For Mr Sharma, that choice made all the difference.

“Cancer doesn't wait for you to make up your mind,” he said. “The sooner you act, the better your chances. I'm grateful I made the decision when I did.”

“Cancer care is not one-size-fits-all. The key is to act early and pursue the treatment that best fits the individual.”
Dr Ang Peng Tiam, Medical Director, Parkway Cancer Centre