From Chairside to Community: Oral Health’s Role in Cancer Prevention

This continuing education course explores the expanding role of oral health professionals in cancer prevention and public health impact. Participants will review current trends in oral and oropharyngeal cancers, including HPV-associated disease, and develop a structured approach to risk assessment and comprehensive head and neck cancer screening. Emphasis will be placed on translating chairside findings into meaningful patient education, risk-reduction strategies, and timely referrals. The course will also highlight opportunities for interprofessional collaboration to extend cancer prevention efforts beyond the dental setting.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Identify major risk factors and current trends associated with oral and oropharyngeal cancers, including HPV-related disease.
2. Demonstrate a systematic approach to head and neck cancer screening and recognition of high-risk clinical findings.
3. Apply patient-centered and community-informed strategies to support cancer prevention, including risk reduction counseling and appropriate referral.
1.0 CEU