E-CAN is an initiative focused on early identification, education, and diagnosis of oral, head, and neck cancers. It uses community screenings, and technology tools like e-scanning to reduce late-stage cancer and save lives.
Dentists often notice early signs of oral cancer during checkups. They can spot precancerous lesions, educate patients on risks, and guide them to timely treatment - helping reduce cancer deaths.
Urban areas: High number of dentists
Rural areas: Very few dentists
Because of this gap, mobile E-CAN clinics are important for rural areas, providing early detection and awareness programs.
According to an article published in the International Journal of Oral Research and Scientific Method, dental practitioners play a crucial role not only in the prevention but also in the early detection of oral cancer. Compared to many other healthcare professionals, dental practitioners are more frequently visited by the general population, which puts them in a unique position for timely identification of potential abnormalities in the oral cavity.
Dentists are well-trained and competent to recognize early signs of disease, including changes resulting from nutritional deficiencies or the use of alcohol and tobacco--both of which are major risk factors for oral cancer. Research suggests that around 50% of patients may develop a recurrent or secondary tumor after initial treatment, highlighting the importance of ongoing surveillance.
Given that oral and head and neck cancers are among the most common and threatening forms of cancer globally, early examination and prompt diagnosis by dental professionals can significantly reduce morbidity--especially in high-risk individuals.
In a recent survey conducted by the Asian Head and Neck Cancer Foundation, only 11 out of 200 dentists were aware of dental oncology-a field crucial to the detection and management of oral cancers. This alarming statistic, representing just 5% awareness, clearly indicates a critical gap in knowledge within the dental community. It is precisely this lack of awareness that E-CAN aims to address. By empowering dentists through education, training, and active involvement in cancer detection, we strive to change outcomes and save lives.
Conduct oral cancer screenings every month to help detect cancer early and improve outcomes by finding treatable lesions.
Work with schools once a year to educate students, teachers, and parents about the causes and warning signs of oral cancer.
Help patients quit tobacco by providing motivational counseling and personalized support.
Use social media platforms to share important information on oral cancer prevention, symptoms, and early detection.
Offer pain relief and palliative care services for patients suffering from oral cancer.
ASIAN plays a vital role in expanding early cancer detection, community awareness, and patient care across the region through digital and grassroots efforts.
Distribution of Educational Pamphlets Disseminating easy-to-understandmaterials to raise awareness about cancer symptoms, risk factors, and prevention at the grassroots level.
E-Health Support Services Leveragingtelemedicineplatforms and digital tools to provide remote consultations and followup care efficiently.
Navigation with Nearby Cancer Centers Guiding patients toward appropriate cancer care centers for timely diagnosis, advanced treatment, and coordinated care.
Social Media Marketing Creating informative posts, videos, and campaigns to educate the public and engage communities digitally. Enhances outreach, especially among youth and urban populations, by spreading awareness at scale.
Empowering Awareness. Advancing Access. Ensuring Early Action.
Association with E-CAN helps attract more patients through structured cancer screening programs and increased public trust.
Promotes visibility of dental services beyond the clinic, reaching peripheral areas and underserved populations.
Enhanced patient flow and diversified services lead to additional revenue streams for the clinic.
Regular training and participation in awareness programs sharpen diagnostic and counseling skills, particularly in early detection of oral cancer.