The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer

Abstract

Purpose of Review To describe the global impact of COVID-19 on oral cancer incidence and prognosis and to inform strategies for early detection and prevention. Recent Findings There is international evidence of delayed diagnosis and more advanced oral tumours presenting during the pandemic. Lockdowns were also associated with delayed surgeries and compromised treatment. School closures during the pandemic resulted in a rapid decline of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine coverage among adolescents globally. There was a rise in risk factor uptake in the form of tobacco use and alcohol consumptions across many parts of the world to manage stress and boredom during the pandemic. The economic fallout from the pandemic is another barrier to dental access and therefore early cancer detection. Summary The full impact of the pandemic on oral cancer incidence and mortality may not be seen for some time. Strategies aimed at prevention and early detection of oral cancer should be prioritised.