Pankaj Bhatt

Pankaj Bhatt addresses the epidemic of oral cancer in South Asia, where areca nut/betel quid use drives extraordinarily high rates of oral submucous fibrosis and oral squamous cell carcinoma. His research has characterized the molecular pathogenesis of areca nut-induced oral fibrosis and malignant transformation. He has conducted large-scale prevention trials evaluating early interventions for oral submucous fibrosis and cancer screening in high-risk populations. His public health and clinical research is critical for addressing one of the world's largest and most preventable cancer burdens.