Background

   Oral cancer is a very common disease in South and Southeast Asia. Betel quid (BQ)- chewing and tobacco-smoking habits are etiological factors for oral cancer patients in these regions.　We conducted oral cancer screenings in BQ-chewing endemic rural areas in South Myanmar for the early detection of oral cancer in BQ-chewing and smoking individuals.

Objectives and Overview

   During the screenings in Hpa-an and Mawlamyaing, in 2015 and 2016 respectively, we examined 105 subjects who were at high risk of oral cancer due to their oral  habits (BQ users and/or smokers). Three carcinoma cases were detected, and there were eight dysplasia cases. The carcinoma detection rate was 2.9%, and the carcinoma and precancerous lesion detection rate was 10.5%. We also conducted the screenings in Taunggyi and Bago in 2017 and 2018 respectively, and found high incidence rate of oral cancer among high-risk population.
   In Myanmar, oral cancer screening has been conducted sporadically on a voluntary basis, and nation-wide surveys have never been performed. 
There are also few reports of oral cancer screening for high-risk groups among the general population in Myanmar. Our present findings highlight the need for further screening and surveys.

Expected effects

    Furthermore, in the high-risk group in Taunggyi and Bago, the incidence rate of oral cancer was higher than in Japan. By continuing oral cancer screening in Myanmar, we help catch cancer early and by activities to eliminate betel quid chewing and antismoking education, we prevent the development of oral cancer, thereby making an international contribution.