Dr Delfin Lovelina Francis presents a long-term community-based study focused on oral cancer prevention among the Malayali tribal population in India.

Beginning in 2010 as part of an oral health assessment, the study identified high tobacco use and limited awareness of oral cancer and tobacco-related diseases.

Over the following eight years, regular brief counselling and awareness activities were delivered every three months through community meetings across 14 villages, with training provided to traditional healers, community leaders, school teachers, and primary healthcare workers.

A follow-up survey in 2018 showed increased awareness and changes in tobacco use, with reported use among men decreasing from 42% to 36% and among women from 38% to 22%.

Dr Francis highlights cultural norms, geographical isolation, and access barriers, emphasising that sustained, community-led awareness is essential for effective cancer prevention in vulnerable populations.