Commentary on 'outcomes of oral cancer early detection and prevention statewide model in Maryland'

摘要

The authors demonstrated that a multi-vectored approach to educating both the public and health professionals can create substantial changes in the outcomes of oral cancer in a statewide population. That benefits ensued from this effort is not surprising, but the degree and relative rapidity of the changes is striking. Although the percentage of patients who receive an oral cancer examination remains disturbingly low, the fact that the number has doubled from 20 percent to 40 percent of this population over a 12-year period creates reason to be encouraged that continued efforts will prove fruitful. The decline in oral cancer incidence and mortality in Maryland relative to other states is also a very positive outcome of this work; it suggests that the educational interventions implemented by the state worked.