Economic Burden of Oral Cancer and Resource-Stratified Approach to the Management of Gingivobuccal Cancers.

Oral cancer represents a major public health issue in low-middle income countries (especially South East Asia) where its burden is disproportionately high. It predominantly affects the lower socioeconomic population and 70% of cases present at advanced stages that need multimodality treatment resulting in high expenditure and poor outcomes. The economic burden of oral cancer extends beyond the medical expenses to include nonmedical and indirect costs. Despite advances in treatment, high costs limit accessibility in resource-constrained settings. A resource-stratified approach is needed for effective and adequate management of the gingivobuccal cancer in these settings. Resource-stratified oral cancer management guidelines ensure uniform treatment.