CHAPEL HILL, N.C., US: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a global health concern, ranking as the sixth most common malignancy worldwide. Poor oral health has emerged as an independent risk factor for HNSCC. Various aspects of poor oral health, such as tooth loss, periodontal disease, infrequent toothbrushing and lack of dental visits, have been associated with a moderate increase in HNSCC risk. However, limited data exists on how oral health has an impact on HNSCC survival. A recent study aimed to address this gap by analysing data from the International Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology Consortium, representing the largest analysis of its kind to date.