1. Why did you choose this subject?

In 2021, I enrolled into an intercalated course with the specialty subject of ENT. This sparked an interest for me in surgery and its importance in cancer treatment, especially in regard to management strategies of head and neck cancer. I then decided to contact my ENT supervisor about if there were any related research opportunities for my BDS3 elective project.

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©BDSA

2. What conclusions can be drawn from your research?

In oral squamous cell carcinoma patients, HPV status is an important determinant for patient option of treatment and its regime - but the survival outcomes and post-treatment morbidity still varies independently of the infection status.

Data obtained suggest that the inflammatory blood markers - particularly albumin concentration and lymphocyte to monocyte ratio - can be independent survival predictors in OPSCC patients. Given all patients are having their bloods taken during pre-assessment screening for cancer treatment, these could be a helpful adjunct when assessing patients on multi-disciplinary team meetings.

3. What are the next steps for you?

The patient database is still in development therefore I am hoping to increase the sample size. In later works, I am planning on helping on a project which would integrate the findings from this research to assess patient morbidity outcomes.

4. What can students learn from your research?

Statistics are important - as dull as it sounds. I believe that having a grasp of this subject opens up many opportunities in the research field - at least from my own experience.

5. Finally, how do you feel having won the BDSA prize?

I am feeling grateful for having my research appreciated at a national level. Given how much time I put into this work, it is even more uplifting to see it be recognised by the BDSA and BDJ Student. I am thankful to have such amazing support through my supervisor and the Glasgow ENT team to have given me this opportunity to take part in the research field as a BDS3 student.