# Strengthening Collaborations in Latin America for Advancing Oral cancer research and public health policies

## TL;DR

This review highlights the need for stronger regional collaborations in Latin America to improve oral cancer research and public health policies.

## Contribution

The paper identifies gaps in oral cancer research and emphasizes the potential of collaborative networks to address regional challenges.

## Key findings

- Most studies on oral cancer in Latin America focus on OC itself, with limited research on potentially malignant disorders.
- Collaborative studies have increased, focusing on regional risk factors like tobacco and alcohol use.
- Challenges include limited epidemiological data and inadequate public health infrastructure.

## Abstract

Oral cancer (OC) represents a significant public health challenge in Latin America, with similar challenges presented in most countries of the region. Regional partnerships are needed, as they can enhance the development of educational campaigns, prevention strategies addressing shared risk factors, and institutional strengthening. Additionally, expanding collaborations can attract international funding and integrate LAC researchers into global initiatives.

This review examines the state of OC research in the region, highlighting collaborative efforts, gaps, and opportunities for advancement.

We identified 17 studies that have studied different aspects of oral cancer in Latin American countries (LAC). Studies varied in design, with ecological studies and case series being the most common. Most studies focused purely on OC, while research on oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) remains limited. Collaborative studies have increased over the past decade, with a growing focus on regional risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use. Despite these advances, challenges persist, including limited epidemiological data, underreporting of cases, and inadequate public health infrastructure.

Collaborative networks have the potential to reduce these gaps by pooling resources, expertise, and data. Improved public health policies supported by robust local data are crucial for reducing the OC burden in LAC. Strengthening regional and international collaborations will be fundamental for the advancement of OC research, improving early detection, and implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies tailored to the region’s unique challenges.

Key words:Oral cancer, mouth neoplasms, Latin America, oral potentially malignant disorders.