Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week

Next celebratedFriday, April 16, 2027

Don't stay silent about Oral Head and Neck Cancer - join us in raising awareness during this important week and help save lives!

See how to celebrate

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEApril 16

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to raise awareness for a crucial cause during Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, which occurs from April 11-17 every year. This week is dedicated to educating the public about the signs, symptoms, and prevention of oral cancer, as well as recognizing those who have been affected by this disease. Did you know that over 53,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year? By spreading knowledge and understanding, we can work towards reducing these numbers and saving lives. So let's use this week to come together and make a positive impact in our communities.

TIMELINE

Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week Timeline

Recognition of Oral Cancer

Detection and treatment of oral cancer gained prominence in the medical community.

First Oral Cancer Screening

OralCDx Brush Test, the first oral cancer diagnostic test, received FDA approval to detect oral cancer.

Rise in Public Awareness

Increased campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of detection and prevention of oral cancer.

HPV-linked Oral Cancers

HPV has been discovered as a leading cause of certain types of oral cancers. This made vaccination an important preventive measure.

First OHANCAW

The first Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Week (OHANCAW) was launched to raise public awareness.

Increase in Oral Cancer Cases

Oral cancer hit a grim milestone with an alarming increase in cases, reasserting the importance of OHANCAW.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week

Get a free oral cancer screening

Many dentists and doctors offer free oral cancer screenings during this week. Take advantage of this opportunity to get a check-up and learn about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer.

HOST

Host a fundraiser for oral cancer research

Gather friends, family, and community members to raise money for oral cancer research. This can be through a charity walk, bake sale, or other creative event.

EDUCATE

Educate others about the importance of regular screenings

Spread awareness by educating others about the importance of regular oral cancer screenings. This can be through social media posts, organizing a presentation at your workplace or school, or simply having conversations with friends and family.

WEAR

Wear a red ribbon

Show your support and raise awareness by wearing a red ribbon during Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week. You can also encourage others to do the same and explain the significance of the red ribbon.

Share survivor stories

Share inspiring stories of oral cancer survivors to spread hope and motivation during this week. This can be through social media, blog posts, or even organizing a survivor panel discussion.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week is Important

It supports those affected by the disease

Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week also serves as a way to support those who have been impacted by this disease - whether they are patients, survivors, or loved ones of those affected. By coming together to raise awareness and show support, we can make a positive impact in the lives of those affected by oral head and neck cancer.

It raises awareness about a serious health issue

Oral head and neck cancer is a serious disease, and Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week helps bring attention to this often overlooked issue. By spreading awareness, we can educate people about risk factors, symptoms, and prevention methods.

Early detection can save lives

Regular screenings for oral head and neck cancer can lead to early detection, which greatly increases the chances of successful treatment. By promoting awareness and encouraging people to get screened, we can potentially save lives.

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