​​​​Ian Christopher D. Ulep

Identifying and Addressing Oral Cancer 

for BIOL 405W (click here to view Research Review Paper)

ABSTRACT

The awareness of oral cancers is a relatively weak point of knowledge for both the general public as well as many current medical practitioners. A major result of this insufficient knowledge is a delay in diagnosis for oral cancers. The delay is a combination of patient and provider delay, postponing the actual treatment of oral cancers. Historically, the scientific terminology of oral cancers may have played a role in the lack of public awareness as well as, in current medical professionals. There are a number of common risk factors associated with oral cancers beyond smoking that many people do not realize. These unrecognized risk factors are included in the daily habits of many demographics, without the knowledge of how these habits can impact one’s oral and overall health. Stemming from these risk factors, some patients may be embarrassed to admit their habits, while some practitioners may be reluctant to potentially embarrass them. There are many ways to improve screening to increase the probability of detecting oral cancers. This includes encouraging patients to actually schedule a dentist appointment. Additional methods to increase patient awareness include: advocacy events, utilizing mass media, and better educating current and future health care professionals. Other effective methods to improve patient awareness are also under investigation.