A message from AFOC
Are you aware that cancer can occur in the oral cavity? According to a
recent announcement by World Health Organization (WHO), oral cancer is
the seventh deadliest among all cancers. Surprisingly, incidence rates
are markedly concentrated in Southeast Asian developing countries, accounting
for 80% of all reported cases. The reason for this high incidence is thought
to be related to betel and smokeless tobacco chewing habits, which is
a widespread custom in this part of the globe. However, regardless of
presence of large number of patients suffering from oral cancer, only
few medical specialists are available for cancer treatment. Furthermore,
although local medical and dental surgeons are keen and excellent, there
doesn't seem to have satisfactory surgical techniques or facilities that
are available in the developed countries.
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Professor
Kanichi Seto
Chairman, AFOC
Member, The Science Council of Japan
Dean, Tsurumi Univ. Dental Dep.
President, Japanese Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
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With this background and the objective of relieving the patients suffering
from oral cancer, we have established an organization called AFOC in
1993. Since then, we were able to carry out a wide range of activities
with the aim of improving health care standards of oral cancer in these
countries. Some of these included conducting epidemiological research,
promoting preventive measures and introduction of our advanced surgical
techniques for treatment of oral cancer. Over the years, Japan has done
much to export materials and know-how to South Asian countries. However,
only little has been done for the prevention and treatment of oral cancer.
Therefore, it is high time to turn our attention to this serious situation
and aid our Asian neighbors. In order to accomplish this, we need your
warm hearted help and contribution. With your cooperation and assistance,
I am sure AFOC can achieve its objectives in helping our Asian neighbors
in their fight against oral cancer.
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