A cancer scare caused by an intimidating white patch in his mouth had all of actor Om Puri's friends and well-wishers worried after the report of the physical irregularity was out. But after a recent mouth surgery, he is fine and says he has kicked the butt. Talking about the ordeal, Om Puri said: "When this white patch was detected in my mouth I was hospitalised and fearing the worst, immediate surgery was performed. Most luckily for me, the patch was found to be benign. So there is no threat to my life." "After years of inability to kick the habit I've quit smoking with immediate effect. Nothing is more important than one's health. I've realized this after being in hospital," he said.