Demographics of oral cancer in older people: Global trends and challenges

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. The mean age of diagnosis of oral cancer among older people is 63 years. Various factors such as betel quid chewing, tobacco use, socio economic and cultural factors have resulted in an increased predilection geriatric oral cancer for Asia. Oral cancer significantly affects quality of life in elder individuals and the estimated future increase in their incidence and mortality rates implies its significance as a major public health concern. Objective: Ensure Dental professionals to realize that oral cancer is much more prevalent among older people compared to the young, to illustrate the geographical distribution patterns and identify future trends and challenges in geriatric oral cancer. Methods: Literature review searches were done PubMed, Wiley Online & Cochrane Library Databases using keywords.