Oral Cancer Screening: Insights into Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Screening Programs for Improved Early Detection

Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for improving prognosis, increasing survival rates, and reducing treatment-related morbidity, considering the high mortality rate associated with this condition. However, the conventional approach within communities has led to a growing exploration of different screening methods to detect potentially malignant oral disorders, with particular emphasis on imaging and artificial intelligence and their integration with conventional approaches. The article reviewed literature on oral neoplasms and early cancer detection from databases like Medline, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, mainly from 2001 to 2023. This review aims to shed light on the potential of these technologies, new ideas, and methods in improving the accuracy and effectiveness of oral cancer screening, ultimately leading to earlier detection and more successful prevention strategies, which are unmet needs, especially in underdeveloped and developing nations.