Mouth to mouth: fighting head and neck cancer

• Grant number: 24/13491-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Journalism
• Start date: December 01, 2024
• End date: November 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry
• Principal Investigator: Andréia Machado Leopoldino
• Grantee: Laura Rodrigues Costa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Faculdade De Ciências Farmacêuticas De Ribeirão Preto/Usp, Brazil

Abstract

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a group of neoplasms that develop in the epithelia of the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx. These are tumors with high incidence rates, mainly in the Southeast region of Brazil, and more than 50%of diagnoses occur in advanced stages. Smoking and consumption of alcohol are among the main factors and together with papilloma virus infection (HPV) is also an important factor associated with HNSCC in young adults. The dissemination of information about the diagnosis and treatment of cancers in generally have evolved; However, it is notable that, currently, we face a large challenge when we relate scientific knowledge and access to the general population. Therefore, there is a great challenge in finding ways to communicate knowledge through part of researchers and those working in the health sector to assist in the detection early and reducing the number of occurrences and consequent mortality due to this neoplasia. The Laboratory of Markers and Cell Signaling in Cancer presents a history of scientific research dedicated to understanding the biogenesis of CECP, as well as strategies for early diagnosis. In this sense, this the project aims to evaluate the knowledge profile of the state's population of São Paulo on the risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of CECP. To do this, we will use a structured online questionnaire, available on Google Forms, as a tool for data collection. Publication of the questionnaire will be carried out via email, media and through QRcode in booklets distributed in educational activities, such as extensive actions in public and private schools in the region of Ribeirão Preto-SP, as well as in campaigns and lectures by the Oral health from the Municipal Health Department of Ribeirão Preto. The information collected will be used for a quantitative study and for better understanding of research participants. It is expected that the data collected will allow the understanding the gaps in the understanding of CECP by the state population of São Paulo and guide public health policies for dissemination and dissemination scientific research focused on the promotion, prevention and diagnosis of HNSCC.