First‐Line Provider Patterns and Primary Care Intervals in Oral–Oropharyngeal Cancer

OBJECTIVES: Early detection improves survival of oral and oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), yet diagnostic delays remain common. Primary care intervals (PCIs) contribute to this delay. This study examined first-line health care providers (HCPs) consulted by undiagnosed OPC patients, reasons for choice and PCI lengths. METHODS: A total of 103 OPC patients were recruited. Collected data included demographics, socioeconomic factors, behavioural risks, OPC characteristics, medical, dental and presentation history, the primary HCP consulted and reason for choice, PCI and patient knowledge of OPC. RESULTS: All participants completed the study. General medical practitioners were the first HCP for 81.6% of undiagnosed OPC patients, with 74.8% presenting for what they believed was a medical problem (p < 0.001). Only 38.8% of primary HCPs recognised the lesion as potentially serious, and 47.6% referred patients promptly. PCI length did not differ significantly between primary HCPs. Only 37.9% of participants identified main risk factors, and 53.4% recognised at least one presenting sign. CONCLUSIONS: Most undiagnosed OPC patients first consulted general medical practitioners. Limited recognition and delayed referral by primary HCPs, combined with low patient awareness of OPC, contribute to ongoing diagnostic delays. Strengthened education for primary HCPs and the public is essential to improve early detection and outcomes.