Oral Cancer and Oncology focus on the prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and multidisciplinary management of malignant and pre-malignant diseases of the oral cavity and oropharynx. This session highlights cutting-edge research, innovative diagnostic tools, and advanced therapeutic strategies that aim to reduce the global burden of oral cancer.
🔹 Epidemiology & Risk Factors
Global trends, incidence, and survival rates
High-risk behaviors: tobacco, alcohol, betel nut, HPV-associated cancers
Genetic and environmental risk factors influencing disease progression
Screening programs for early detection in high-risk populations
🔹 Early Diagnosis & Advanced Screening Tools
Clinical signs, premalignant lesions, and early detection challenges
Adjunctive diagnostic technologies (VIZILITE, autofluorescence, chemiluminescence)
Role of biomarkers, liquid biopsy, and molecular diagnostics
AI-driven predictive models and digital pathology
🔹 Molecular Oncology & Tumor Biology
Genomic and proteomic profiling of oral cancers
Tumour microenvironment, angiogenesis, and metastasis mechanisms
HPV-positive vs. HPV-negative oral cancers
Emerging targets for personalized oncology
🔹 Therapeutic Modalities & Multidisciplinary Care
Surgical oncology: tumor resection, neck dissection, and reconstruction
Radiation therapy advancements: IMRT, proton therapy, image-guided radiotherapy
Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy (PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors)
Role of dental professionals in pre- and post-radiation care
🔹 Rehabilitation, Quality of Life & Survivorship
Oral rehabilitation following cancer surgery
Management of oral mucositis, xerostomia, osteoradionecrosis
Psychosocial impact and long-term follow-up protocols
Nutrition, speech, and swallowing rehabilitation
🔹 Prevention & Public Health Strategies
Community-based screening and awareness programs
HPV vaccination and its impact on oropharyngeal cancers
Tobacco cessation interventions and behavioral strategies
Reducing disparities in cancer care access
This session provides a collaborative platform for oncologists, oral surgeons, pathologists, radiologists, dental clinicians, and researchers to discuss breakthroughs and share expertise aimed at enhancing early diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and patient quality of life.