Arizona Oral Cancer Walk
The Arizona Oral Cancer Walk (AzOCW) was started by Dr. Terrence Yu and a group of dental students in 2008 as a way to address the need of oral cancer screenings. With the support of 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 to go to local cancer-related initiatives that increase awareness about oral, head, and neck cancer. At its 2023 event, the number of walkers grew to over 550.
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 about the risks for and prevention of oral, head, and neck cancer, as well as the importance of routine oral cancer screenings and biopsy indications.
- Serve the greater public community of Arizona by raising awareness about 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!
More Information
All proceeds go towards the local Arizona community & its cancer-related initiatives. Registration comes with a T-shirt* & ALL-DAY pass to the Phoenix Zoo! Kids aged 2 and under will NOT receive a shirt. T-shirt size is guaranteed for those who register by Sept 1!