Professional and community efforts to prevent morbidity and mortality from oral cancer

Abstract

Background: Oral and pharyngeal cancers cause significant morbidity and mortality, yet there has been little improvement in survival rates in the past 30 years. Because early diagnoses significantly increase survival rates, the authors summarize several approaches to educating and mobilizing the dental profession and the public about this problem. Clinicians are invited to initiate similar programs to catalyze change in their own communities.

Methods: The authors found that many approaches have been used to define the problem and initiate change. These include surveys, focus groups, development of consortia, media programs, flyers, leaflets, prescription pads, legislation and professional endorsements.

Results: In Maryland in 1996, only 20 percent of adults reported receiving an oral cancer examination, and most oral cancers were diagnosed at late stages by physicians, not dentists. Results of the public educational campaigns in the regions of New York/New Jersey and Maryland have not been formally evaluated, but there is a developing consensus that oral cancer diagnostic practices in the regions with active educational programs are increasing.

Conclusions: Coalitions or partnerships among individuals and organizations from government, academia, private practice, industry, the general community and the media can affect awareness about oral cancer prevention and early detection on a regional basis.

Clinical implications: By increasing awareness of oral cancer among the dental profession and the public, earlier diagnosis of these cancers with consequent improved cure rates is likely. Providing oral cancer diagnostic services as a routine part of an oral examination also may motivate patients to visit the dentist at least once a year.