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Cancer curricula in U.S. dental schools
K V Rankin1, N J Burznski, S Silverman
1Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University System, Dallas 75246, USA.
Summary
Cancer education in U.S. dental schools has significantly declined since 1981, with fewer schools having dedicated committees or funding for oral oncology programs. This impacts essential training areas like diagnosis, therapy management, and psychosocial support.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Oncology
- Public Health
Background:
- The American Association for Cancer Education (AACE) previously assessed cancer curricula in U.S. dental schools in 1981.
- Oral oncology education is crucial for dentists to manage cancer patients' oral health and rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current state of cancer education in U.S. dental schools.
- To compare current cancer education standards with those from 1981.
- To identify persistent deficits in oral oncology training.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 52 U.S. dental schools.
- The survey instrument was similar to the 1981 AACE assessment.
- Data collected focused on curriculum committees, funding, and specific training components.
Main Results:
- Significant declines were observed in the representation of cancer education on curriculum committees.
- The existence of dedicated cancer education committees has decreased.
- University general budget funding and National Cancer Institute (NCI) funding for these programs have significantly declined.
- Key deficits persist in practical clinical oncology experience, psychosocial training, community activities, and sustained funding.
Conclusions:
- Cancer education in U.S. dental schools has diminished since 1981.
- Current oral oncology training lacks essential components recommended by the AACE.
- There is an urgent need to revitalize and fund oral oncology education in dental schools to address these critical deficits.