Arizona Oral Cancer Walk
The Arizona Oral Cancer Walk (AzOCW) was started by Dr. Terrence Yu and a group of dental students in 2008 to address the need for oral cancer screenings. With support from the AzDA Cares Foundation, the Arizona Academy of General Dentistry, and local dental and dental hygiene schools, the first event was held on Saturday, October 25, 2009. At that first event, 81 walkers participated and raised over $7,000 for local cancer-related initiatives that increase awareness of oral, head, and neck cancer. At its 2025 event, the number of walkers exceeded 700.
Founder Dr. Terrence Yu’s vision was to mobilize volunteers and implement a health initiative that would unite the public and dental community to not only increase the number of individuals receiving oral cancer screenings but also increase education and awareness for this silent killer.
Today, the mission of the Arizona Oral Cancer Walk is to:
- Serve the dental professional community of Arizona by increasing education on the risks of, and prevention strategies for, oral, head, and neck cancer, as well as the importance of routine oral cancer screenings and indications for biopsy.
- Serve the greater public in Arizona by raising awareness of the importance of early screening, detection, and treatment.
- Serve individuals diagnosed with oral, head, or neck cancer as they navigate through life before, during, and after cancer treatment.
About the Oral Cancer Walk Event
The AZ Oral Cancer Walk typically takes place on a Saturday in October, and features health booths, kids’ activities, oral cancer screenings, and an oral cancer & HPV education center. Hear from oral cancer warriors before spending the day at the Phoenix Zoo!