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Oral cancer can be detected early.

In our country, oral cancer has a lower level of public awareness compared to other cancers such as lung, stomach, and breast cancer, which is why the emphasis on 'early detection, early treatment' is not being fully implemented.

As per the oral cancer statistics (2019) including pharyngeal cancer, approximately 23,700 people are diagnosed annually and over 8,000 deaths have been reported as of 2021. Comparing these figures to 30 years ago, the incidence has increased nearly threefold, and the mortality rate remains high even today.

Conversely, in Western countries, concentrated efforts towards the ‘early detection and early treatment' of oral cancer have resulted in a significant reduction in mortality rates despite an increase in incidence.

Oral cancer not only affects the vital functions that impact the quality of life (QOL) such as "eating and speaking," but also poses significant challenge in terms of facial reconstruction. Advanced stages of oral cancer can affect psychological well-being of the patients even after treatment. Additionally, advanced oral cancer can lead to an increase in medical expenses (borne by patients, insurers, and the government), which is a major concern especially in an aging society, such as our country.

Oral cancer is distinct from cancers in other areas, since it can be "visually observed and directly accessed." It can be detected not only through mass screenings but also during routine dental check-ups. In order to reduce oral cancer-related deaths and alleviate the suffering of patients affected by oral cancer, the roles of dental professionals such as dentists and dental hygienists are of utmost importance. Specifically, this includes raising awareness of oral cancer among the general population, organizing mass screenings for the "early detection and early treatment" of oral cancer, establishing individual screening systems in dental clinics, building a network with testing facilities and core hospitals, nurturing professionals involved in diagnosis and treatment (pathologists, oral cancer treatment specialists), and providing support to patients and families affected by oral cancer.

Through such activities, the goal of the Non-profit Organization Oral Cancer Early Detection System Network (OCDEN) is to decrease the number of patients suffering from oral cancer. You too can join OCDEN to help reduce oral cancer-related deaths and aid patients struggling with oral cancer.

For dentists and dental hygienists, we will be providing information about upcoming training workshops. Upon successful completion of these workshops, we will issue certificate of recognition from the organization. Furthermore, if desired, we will enlist the names of the associated dental clinics publicly on our website.

Chairman's Address

At the Occasion of Assuming the Position of Chairman

The Non-profit Organization Oral Cancer Early Detection System Network (OCDEN) was established with the aim of detecting and facilitating the treatment of oral cancer, which still claims many lives in advanced countries. While identifying early-stage oral cancer is not easy, it is believed that dental clinics, where the oral cavity is frequently examined, can potentially detect oral mucosal diseases. The goal of screening for oral cancer and bridging the gap to advanced medical facilities has remained unchanged since the organization's inception.

Furthermore, as an auxiliary means of detection, a new cell examination technique called Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC) was introduced nationwide at an early stage and is still being used for diagnosis of over 500 cases annually. These efforts have demonstrated clear results under the guidance of the former chairman, Dr. Mitsuyuki Chiba. Attracting attention in the Kanto region, including Chiba Prefecture and Ichikawa City, the rate of early cancer detection has increased, yielding positive outcomes.
However, we cannot deny that there is room for improvement in terms of nationwide expansion. Spreading our activities across the country is an ongoing challenge, but to achieve this, it is essential for the general public to become aware of the NPO's activities. These efforts must not be temporary, but rather sustained and continuous. Specifically, we intend to become a familiar presence through regular training sessions for dental clinic medical staff, relevant academic societies, and citizens, by conducting public awareness lectures about oral cancer.

The NPO has now reached its 10th year since establishment. As we embark on a new stage, the executive team will work together to make every effort. We kindly ask for your guidance and support.
理事長 田中 陽一
Chairman Yoichi Tanaka

Organization Overview

Organization Name Non-profit Organization Oral Cancer Early Detection Network (OCDEN)
Jurisdiction Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Established Aug-12
Chairman Yoichi Tanaka
Executive Director in Charge Akihiro Ihara
Activity Field Healthcare and Welfare
Contact Office [Capital Region Contact Office]
Postal Code: 272-0021
2-9-9 Hachiman, Ichikawa City, Chiba Prefecture
Inside the Ichikawa City Dental Association Building
Phone/Fax 047-332-0211
E-mail info @ ocedn.jp
Headquarters Postal Code: 410-0311
1-3-10 Hara-machi Naka, Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Number of Regular Member 247 members (as of March 2022)
Number of Supporting Members 6 companies (as of March 2022)
  • GC
  • 口腔がん撲滅委員会
  • Zi-WAVE
  • バナー広告募集中
  • バナー広告募集中
  • バナー広告募集中
  • バナー広告募集中
  • バナー広告募集中