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Evaluation of oral cancer screening
N J Burzynski1, F J Firriolo, J M Butters
1University of Louisville School of Dentistry, Department of Oral Diagnosis/Oral Medicine.
Background:
Oral cancer screening procedures are designed to collectively allow early detection of cancers in a body area accessible to visual and physical examination, as well as to facilitate timely treatment, awareness, and the ongoing education of the public.
Methods:
A state fair was selected for this activity because of the availability of a random population compatible with meeting these goals. A total of 1,151 individuals participated in this free elective activity.
Results:
Of this number 4.17% were deemed to have oral pathologic states necessitating professional intervention, and 1.82% were clinically diagnosed as having potential dysplastic or precancerous lesions. No clinical oral cancer was detected in this population. Nevertheless, by virtue of screening and detecting clinically premalignant lesions, the screening test advanced the diagnosis of potential oral cancers.
Conclusions:
The outcome adds support to oral cancer screening as a procedure applicable in reducing morbidity and mortality from oral cancers.