Oral cancer awareness poster

Observance emphasizes importance of making oral cancer screening part of dental exam routine

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, an annual observation that underscores the fact that early detection of oral cancer can decrease morbidity and increase long-term survival.

The observance also emphasizes the importance of making oral cancer screenings part of the dental exam routine.

This is especially true given that due to human papillomavirus infection, head and neck cancers are occurring in those in whom the typical risk factors of cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption may not be present.

HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer has risen over the past two decades, while oral cancer linked to tobacco and alcohol use has declined over the same time period, said James Mancini, D.M.D., ADA Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention chair.

“The administration of the HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancer

oral cancer awareness month 2025

oral cancer awareness month canada