Oral cancer in Taiwan

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Taiwan faces a significant burden from oral cancer, historically linked to areca/betel quid chewing.
• Despite a reduction in chewing prevalence, oral cancer remains a critical public health issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present current statistics on oral cancer incidence and mortality in Taiwan.
• To outline recent advancements in oral cancer control strategies.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the Taiwan Cancer Registry and Health Promotion Administration Annual Reports.
• Literature review of oral cancer control studies using PubMed.

Main Results:

• In 2021, male oral cancer incidence was 29.77 and mortality was 11.25 per 100,000 persons.
• Male chewing prevalence decreased to 6.2% by 2018.
• A national oral cancer screening program is in place for high-risk groups.

Conclusions:

• Age-standardized oral cancer incidence rates have declined since 2009.
• The aging population contributes to a persistent high oral cancer burden.
• Multi-agency collaboration on betel quid control, awareness, and care is vital for prevention and reducing mortality.