Strengthening Collaborations in Latin America for Advancing Oral cancer research and public health policies.

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer (OC) represents a significant public health challenge in Latin America, with similar challenges presented in most countries of the region. Regional partnerships are needed, as they can enhance the development of educational campaigns, prevention strategies addressing shared risk factors, and institutional strengthening. Additionally, expanding collaborations can attract international funding and integrate LAC researchers into global initiatives.

Material and methods: This review examines the state of OC research in the region, highlighting collaborative efforts, gaps, and opportunities for advancement.

Results: We identified 17 studies that have studied different aspects of oral cancer in Latin American countries (LAC). Studies varied in design, with ecological studies and case series being the most common. Most studies focused purely on OC, while research on oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) remains limited. Collaborative studies have increased over the past decade, with a growing focus on regional risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use. Despite these advances, challenges persist, including limited epidemiological data, underreporting of cases, and inadequate public health infrastructure.

Conclusions: Collaborative networks have the potential to reduce these gaps by pooling resources, expertise, and data. Improved public health policies supported by robust local data are crucial for reducing the OC burden in LAC. Strengthening regional and international collaborations will be fundamental for the advancement of OC research, improving early detection, and implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies tailored to the region's unique challenges. Key words:Oral cancer, mouth neoplasms, Latin America, oral potentially malignant disorders.