COMMUNITY-BASED SCREENING FOR LIP LESIONS IN WORKERS EXPOSED TO THE SUN: A CASE REPORT ON THE FAMILY HEALTH STRATEGY IN LIGHT OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.01596726040611

• Palavras-chave: Oral Health. Primary Health Care. Community Health Workers. Lip Cancer. Climate Change.

• Keywords: Oral Health. Primary Health Care. Community Health Workers. Lip Cancer. Climate Change.

• Abstract:

  Introduction:
  Lip cancer is associated with chronic sun exposure and represents a significant public health problem, especially among informal workers exposed to the sun. Climate change amplifies the impacts of ultraviolet radiation on vulnerable populations, reinforcing the need for localized preventive strategies.
  Methodology:
  This is a descriptive, qualitative, experience-report study conducted at a Family Health Unit. Community Health Agents (CHAs) were trained by a dental surgeon to identify abnormalities in the lips of informal workers known as “porters,” who are continuously exposed to solar radiation. The CHWs provided preventive guidance and referred suspected cases for dental evaluation.
  Results:
  The initiative expanded oral health surveillance efforts in the area, strengthened the bond between the team and the community, and increased spontaneous demand for dental evaluation. The CHWs demonstrated the ability to recognize suspicious changes and act as facilitators of access to care.
  Conclusion:
  Training the CHWs proved to be a viable strategy for the prevention and early detection of lip lesions in workers exposed to the sun, contributing to actions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals related to health, reducing inequalities, and climate action.