Tobacco-free community coalitions: opportunities for enhancing oral cancer prevention programs.

Background: This study identified oral cancer (OC) education and tobacco reduction collaboration within tobacco-free community coalitions (TFCC).

Methods: Data from 4 TFCC were collected via educational intervention surveys and structured focused group Interviews.

Results: Of the 52 participants, 96% were aware that tobacco products are risk factors for OC, yet 33% were unaware of the high OC impact locally. About 90% agreed that primary care providers and dentists should provide OC screenings and tobacco cessation.

Conclusion: There is a need for provider endorsement and public demand for OC screenings. Opportunity exists for partnering and collaborative OC prevention with TFCC.