Disparities in Oral Cancer: A Literature Review

Abstract

Being one of the top ten most prevalent malignancies in the world, oral cancer has a poor prognosis, a delayed clinical diagnosis, and expensive treatment options. Oral cancer is becoming more common. Each year, thousands of people die from oral cancer, as the disease is associated with increased fatality due to late-stage identification. This paper summarizes findings from an in-depth literature review on the topic of oral cancer, specifically highlighting its disproportionate impact on specific demographic groups. The review first examines overall trends in the epidemiology of oral cancer. Thereafter, racial disparities are examined with a focus on differences in cancer screening, population-based trends in behaviors that serve as precursors to oral cancer (e.g., smoking), and disparities in treatment and affiliated outcomes. Finally, recommendations are offered to reduce identified disparities.