“Chew.” The Oral Cancer Documentary 

“Chew.” The Oral Cancer Documentary 2017 by: Sasa Productions
The The Commonwealth Cancer Association reached out to us in hopes of putting together a short documentary on the rising number of Oral Cancer cases in the CNMI. The chewing of young pugua (betel nut) with the mixed concoction of cigarette (and/or tobacco) lime, and pupulu (pepper leaf) is directly tied to oral cancer and is taking young innocent lives at an alarming rate. I've conducted interviews with victims and families, pugua experts, and those heavily involved in the study, treatment, and recovery of this terrible disease. The purpose of this film is to not only spread awareness on the the disease itself, but also encourage avid chewers to partake in the free oral screenings at any/all dental clinics in the CNMI. Early detection is key to survival.
Here is a short teaser to the documentary. The film will be released at the end of April 2017 in honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month.
According to the Commonwealth Cancer Association (CCA ccamarianas.org), there have been 48 cases of Oral Cancer in the CNMI in a span of 5 years. Less than half have survived.
Studies from the University of Guam show that children as young as 9 years old begin chewing betel nut.