Mato Grosso do Sul launches Novembro Bordô campaign for oral cancer prevention

Health authorities in Mato Grosso do Sul have launched the “Novembro Bordô” campaign to increase awareness and prevention of oral cancer. The initiative, held at the headquarters of the Brazilian Association of Dentistry of MS, aims to improve early identification of the disease and organize patient care flows.

Oral cancer is the seventh most frequent type of cancer in Brazil, primarily affecting men over 40. Approximately 80% of diagnoses in the country occur at advanced stages, which can necessitate extensive surgery and impact quality of life. To combat this, the State Health Secretariat (SES) has implemented a Care Line for Oral Cancer, utilizing tools like TeleEstomato/MS to allow primary care dentists to send photos of suspicious lesions to specialists for evaluation.

In Campo Grande, a “Dia D” event is scheduled for November 11, offering free oral health evaluations and guidance at the CEM Complex auditorium and several Family Health Units (USFs). Throughout November, dental teams will continue educational activities and clinical exams. Health officials warn that symptoms such as non-healing sores, white or red spots, lumps, and persistent difficulty swallowing should not be ignored.