December 5: Latin American Oral Cancer Awareness Day

December 5 marks the Latin American Day for the Fight Against Oral Cancer, an initiative established in 2009 by the Latin American Dental Federation (FOLA) in honor of Dr. Julio Santana Garay, a renowned Cuban dentist and pioneer in oral cancer prevention campaigns. This day aims to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention of this disease.

Incidence and Mortality in the U.S. and Latin America

In the United States, approximately 58,450 new cases of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer are expected in 2024, with around 12,230 associated deaths.

In Latin America, the incidence and mortality rates vary by country, but an upward trend has been observed in recent decades. A study analyzing data from 20 Latin American countries between 2000 and 2020 reported an increase in both incidence and mortality rates, particularly among men.

Causes of Oral Cancer

The primary risk factors for developing oral cancer include:

• Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco significantly increases the risk.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: High alcohol intake is linked to a greater risk of oral cancer.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain HPV strains are associated with oropharyngeal cancer.
• Prolonged sun exposure: Increases the risk of cancer on the lips.
• Poor diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables can contribute to the disease.

Preventive Measures

To reduce the risk of oral cancer, the following measures are recommended:

• Avoid tobacco use and moderate alcohol consumption.
• Maintain good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental visits.
• Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Use lip protection and limit excessive sun exposure.
• Get vaccinated against HPV and practice safe sex.

Habits Contributing to the Disease

In addition to tobacco and alcohol consumption, other habits that can increase the risk of oral cancer include:

• Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting oral care can lead to precancerous conditions.
• Ill-fitting dental prosthetics: These can cause chronic irritation to the oral mucosa.
• Exposure to chemicals: Working in environments with chemical exposure without adequate protection increases risk.

Latin American Oral Cancer Awareness Day is an opportunity to reinforce education and prevention efforts for this disease, promoting healthy habits and emphasizing the importance of early detection to improve the quality of life for the population.