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Cancer Plan: Oral Health
Nationally, more than 30,000 new cases of cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx are diagnosed annually and result in over 8,000 deaths. These cancers include the mouth, tongue, lips, throat, parts of the nose, and larynx. Oral cancers represent only 2 - 4% of all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States, but their relative survival rates are among the lowest of major cancers. In 2002, Maine’s oral cancer incidence and mortality rates were higher than for the United States (Figures 13 & 14).
Figure 12: Age-Adjusted Oropharygeal Cancer Incidence Rates, 1995-2002
Source: Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program and the Maine Cancer Registry Program
Figure 13: Age-Adjusted Oropharygeal Cancer Mortality Rates, 1995-2002
Source: National Center for Health Statistics
Reduction of high-risk behaviors, including tobacco use and excessive use of alcohol are significant in preventing oral cancers. The combination of tobacco and alcohol is believed to represent a substantially greater risk than either substance used alone. Among the other factors that can place a person at risk for these cancers are viral infections, immunodeficiencies, poor nutrition, exposure to ultraviolet light, and certain occupational exposures.
In Maine, where there is limited access to oral health services, combining activities to address risk factors within other education, prevention, and early detection initiatives will be key in further reducing the incidence of oral cancers.
Goal: To reduce the risk of oral and pharyngeal cancers in Maine.
Objective 1: Advocate and support the creation of an evidence-based state oral health improvement plan to reduce the incidence of oral cancer by 2010.
Strategies
- Advocate for and participate in the continuation of coordinated efforts between the Maine Oral Health Program and other public, private, governmental and non-profit stakeholders to create and implement the state oral health improvement plan.
- Advocate for the development and implementation of statewide oral health data and surveillance system to collect and disseminate oral health data.
Objective 2: Provide educational opportunities for the public, health professionals and decision makers about the relationship between oral health and systemic health.
Strategies
- Advocate for and participate in the development and implementation of comprehensive statewide oral health education and awareness programs inclusive of media campaigns that target at- risk populations.
- Increase to 100% the number of Maine schools who have implemented Comprehensive School Health Education and have a Coordinated School Health Program.
- Advocate for and support activities to educate physicians about the link between oral health and overall health.
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