IARC 60th Anniversary - 19-21 May 2026
Session : 21/05/26 - Posters
Oral cavity cancer prevention in Latin America and the Caribbean: a Delphi study
ESTEVES-PEREIRA T. 1, LAUBY-SECRETAN B. 2, CARVALHO A. 3, SOLLECITO T. 4, SANTOS-SILVA A. 1
1 Departamento de Diagnóstico Oral, Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil; 2 International Agency for Research on Cancer, Evidence Synthesis and Classification Branch, World Health Organization, Lyon, France; 3 International Agency for Research on Cancer, Early Detection, Prevention and Infections Branch, World Health Organization, Lyon, France; 4 Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelfia, United States
Background: Oral cancer is a global public health issue, with incidence and mortality rates particularly high in Latin America. Social and economic disparities hinder early diagnosis and treatment, underscoring the need for effective prevention strategies. This study aims to develop a consensus document, using the Delphi method, that incorporates the perspectives of experts and policymakers from Latin American and Caribbean countries on oral cancer prevention.
Methods: Twenty-eight specialists and health managers from 12 countries were invited to participate in a two-phase REDCap survey. Phase 1 consisted of a qualitative questionnaire on current prevention strategies, barriers, and potential actions. Thematic analysis of responses informed the drafting of seven recommendations, each with a main statement and a corresponding definition, which were reviewed for feasibility by international advisors. In Phase 2, panelists are asked to rate their agreement with each recommendation using a five-point scale.
Results (Preliminary): Phase 1 achieved an 85.7% (24/28) response rate, with participants representing diverse institutions across the region. Phase 2 is currently underway, with responses being collected to refine and validate the recommendations. Consensus will be considered reached when ≥80% agreement is obtained for each recommendation.
Conclusions: Once consensus is reached, a document with recommendations will be produced. Based on these recommendations, a toolkit for oral cancer prevention will be developed, including educational materials to strengthen campaigns and support implementation of solutions to overcome barriers to early detection in Latin America and the Caribbean.