Apr 18, 2025
April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, and we are proud to recognize ABOMS Diplomates who have earned the Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Meet Dhafer M. Alsuwied, DDS, who earned the CAQ in 2022. Below, he shares his insights including the challenges, successes and rewarding aspects of practicing in the specialty.
Tell us about a patient who changed you.
Every patient comes with the weight of their diagnosis—and each one leaves a mark on me. Recently, I’ve encountered a number of young patients diagnosed with oral cancer. What has been particularly striking is how informed they are. With access to endless information online, they often come in with a full understanding of their prognosis, treatment options, and—even more sobering—the realization that youth does not always guarantee survival. These are no longer just cases to operate on. I find myself becoming a consistent presence in their lives—offering hope, guidance, and compassion. In their fight against cancer, I’m not just their surgeon. I’m often the closest person standing with them in this journey.
How has the ABOMS CAQ advanced your practice or your career?
Earning the ABOMS Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) has been a pivotal point in my career. Coupled with training at some of the most well-known centers under exceptional mentors, it has given me the foundation to offer the highest standard of care. I constantly hear from my patients, “We are here because we know you’re well-trained and can help us the most.” That trust, backed by recognized credentials and a strong surgical background, has elevated not only my practice but also the expectations and outcomes for the patients I serve.
Highlight your journey, challenges, and triumphs.
I’m now completing six years in this subspecialty, and I’m proud to have built a robust head and neck cancer service in my region—one of the very few of its kind. We’ve managed to serve our community with consistent, high-quality care, supported by an outstanding referral base and a commitment to state-of-the-art treatment. The workload is heavy, but the reward is immense. One of my proudest triumphs is our continued effort to spread awareness—especially during April, when we lead annual campaigns for oral and head and neck cancer awareness. Looking forward, I’m also working toward establishing structured subspecialty training in the region. Being able to provide patients with care that meets the highest standards is both an honor and a responsibility that I carry every day.