Betel nut and oral cancer resource
A new brochure has been developed to raise awareness about the association of betel nut use and oral cancer disease, particularly for Victoria's CALD community.
DHSV’s Oral Cancer Program has launched a valuable new resource to promote oral cancer awareness. The ‘Betel nut and oral cancer’ brochure was developed to raise awareness about the association of betel nut use and oral cancer disease.
Betel nut is the seed of the fruit areca palm, and it is also known as areca nut. Betel nut products may be self-prepared with betel leaf and tobacco but are also commercially available in tins or sachets.
This consumer tested, easy to understand resource is tailored for culturally and linguistically diverse communities across Victoria. The resource is also intended to assist oral and other health professionals and community organisations.
The brochure provides crucial information about the:
- potential risks associated with the consumption of betel nut products (e.g., betel quid, ’Paan’, supari etc.),
- early signs of oral cancer,
- available care services and how to access support.
The resource highlights that frequent use of betel nut and betel nut products over long periods of time increases the risk of oral cancer.
Whether you’re a healthcare provider or a community member, this resource is a valuable tool to promote oral health, oral cancer prevention and early detection.
Access the full resource below and help spread oral cancer awareness.
