UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Objective:Self examination for breast, skin and testicular cancers has been widely utilized as a method to improve the early detection of cancer. However, the oral self-exam is less frequently employed as a strategy for increasing early detection of oral cancer, often characterized as very aggressive. Early diagnosis of cancer leads to less disfiguring surgery. The purposes of the Self-Exam educational tool are: a) To increase patient awareness regarding the normal oral structures and their changes, and b) To become an active partner for improving the chances of early detection of cancer or a predisposing condition. The tool educates and empowers the individual, their families and/or care givers in the early detection of oral tissue changes.

Methods:Telephone follow-up calls were used to confirm regular self exam utilization of the 261 patients screened for oral cancer (186 smokers, 42 non-smokers).

Results:42.6% of the patients screened for oral cancer and taught to perform a self exam report using it regularly. The active participation of the individual in the early detection helps the health professional in the diagnosis of lesions, while familiarizing the patients with their normal oral structures. It is a simple non expensive technique that could be employed in diverse environments. Inclusion of the educational tool into a routine exam or within the patient's oral hygiene routine could be recommended.