The global epidemiological and socioeconomic burden of oral cancer, and the need for public health education in oral cancer prevention - A literature review

Oral cancer is a growing global health challenge, with rising incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates, especially among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. This literature review synthesizes current evidence on the global epidemiological and socioeconomic burden of oral cancer, focusing on three anatomical types: Lip, oral cavity, and oropharyngeal cancers. The review aims to inform future research, prevention strategies, and policy development. Data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (1990–2021) demonstrate a steady increase in the incidence, prevalence, and mortality of lip and oral cavity cancers. Incidence and prevalence rates are highest in countries with a high sociodemographic index (SDI) and lowest in low SDI countries, while mortality peaks in low-middle SDI regions. The estimated annual percentage change for incidence and mortality reveals the greatest increases in high SDI countries. In 2021, Palau recorded the highest incidence and mortality rates, while Sao Tome and Principe had the lowest. In contrast, epidemiological data on oropharyngeal cancer are limited. A 2012 study covering 42 countries identified France and Germany as having the highest age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR) among men and women, respectively, while Kuwait and Belarus reported the lowest. Notably, 13 high-SDI countries exhibited annual incidence increases exceeding 3%. GLOBOCAN 2020 data further highlighted elevated ASIRs and male mortality rates in several European nations. Despite the significant and rising burden, the socioeconomic impact of oral cancer remains underreported, with most cost-related research originating from high-income countries. Socioeconomic inequalities continue to impede access to prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment. Public health education is a critical strategy for address these disparities, as it increases awareness of risk factors, facilitates early detection of symptoms, and encourages prompt health-seeking behavior. Evidence from global health crises further highlights the effectiveness of well-structured educational campaigns in reducing disease burden and mortality. Strengthening global investment in prevention, surveillance, and equitable healthcare access is critical to mitigating the long-term health and economic consequences of oral cancer. Importantly, gaps exist in published literature, particularly concerning awareness, epidemiology, and socioeconomic determinants of oral cancer, underscoring the need for further studies to address these limitations both regionally and globally.