Connecticut Dentist Leads National Push for Oral Cancer Awareness
Oral cancer is emerging as one of the most pressing public health concerns globally. Experts warn that lifestyle factors, late diagnosis, and lack of awareness are driving a steady increase in cases across many regions, including parts of Asia, Europe, and North America. With World Oral Cancer Day approaching, health organizations are urging communities to participate in free screening programs and spread awareness about this preventable disease. Connecticut-based dentist, researcher, and healthcare leader, Dr. Parekh has made it his life’s mission to expand access to care and advance knowledge in oral cancer prevention and early detection.
Born in Ahmedabad, India, Dr. Parekh’s academic journey spans continents. After completing his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at Gujarat University, he earned a Master’s in Health Administration at Suffolk University, followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery at New York University. This diverse background has given him both clinical expertise and leadership skills, which he now applies with Smile Rite Dental Care and Horizon Dental, practices that serve more than 22,000 patients in Connecticut with a large number being on Medicaid who have less access to quality care.
“Dentistry is both a science and a service,”Dr. Parekh says. “If we can prevent oral cancer, improve access to care, and inspire the next generation of dental professionals, then we are building a healthier future for America.”
Dr. Parekh’s research has focused on oral cancer awareness, prevention, and the intersection of cultural and socioeconomic factors in treatment outcomes. His original articles have shed light on the urgent need for public awareness campaigns and systematic oral cancer screening.
One of his most impactful studies examined how frequently dental professionals conduct oral cancer screenings during routine checkups and how patients’ cultural backgrounds influence their health-seeking behavior. In his original research titled, “Oral Manifestations of Areca Nut Habits: Selected Case,” he found that medical and oral health care providers unfamiliar with the use of Areca and the betel nut in South Asian populations can easily miss the diagnosis and early detection of oral cancer or pre malignant conditions.
Dr. Parekh’s work in oral cancer is his research article titled, “Investigate How Cultural and Socioeconomic Factors Influence Oral Cancer Prevention Behaviors, Screening Uptake, and Treatment Outcomes” elaborated on this and explored the influence that cultural and socioeconomic factors have on oral healthcare. He found that cultural differences, such as diet and use of tobacco, play a large part in oral healthcare.
Dr. Parekh also found that individuals with a lower income are less likely to undergo regular screenings. This research is vital as it underscores the complexity of factors influencing oral cancer outcomes. By identifying the specific cultural and socioeconomic barriers to effective prevention and early detection, the study provides valuable insights for public health interventions. These insights can guide the development of more targeted and culturally sensitive programs to improve screening rates and promote healthier behaviors, ultimately leading to better oral cancer outcomes, especially in underserved populations.
Looking ahead, Dr. Parekh envisions expanding nationwide initiatives in oral cancer awareness and prevention. His ultimate goal to save lives by making early detection of oral cancer a standard of care across the United States.
