“Prevalence Of Oral Precancerous Lesions And Conditions And Their Environmental, Behavioral, And Quality Of Life Correlates Among Tobacco Users In Northern India: A Cross-Sectional Study”
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64252/xxdp7a66Keywords:
Oral precancer, Tobacco use, Environmental health, Oral Submucous Fibrosis, Leukoplakia, Quality of life, Northern India.Abstract
Background:
Tobacco use is a major behavioral and environmental risk factor for oral diseases, particularly precancerous lesions and conditions. In Northern India, the widespread availability and cultural acceptance of smokeless and smoked tobacco contribute to a rising burden of oral health issues. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of oral precancerous lesions and conditions among adult tobacco users, evaluate their oral health status, and analyze the associations between environmental, behavioral, and quality of life factors.
Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted among 800 adults aged 35 years and above attending the dental outpatient department of a tertiary care institution in Northern India. Data collection included structured interviews to capture sociodemographic and behavioral variables, clinical examinations based on the WHO Oral Health Assessment Form for Adults (2013), and the OHIP-14 questionnaire to assess oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Environmental and behavioral correlates such as residence, education level, tobacco type, and duration of use were analyzed using chi-square and t-tests.
Results:
Of the 800 participants, 53.5% were male and 46.5% were female. Among males, 52.1% were smokers, and 47.9% were tobacco chewers; among females, 52.4% were chewers and 47.6% were smokers. The overall prevalence of oral precancerous lesions was high, with Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) and Leukoplakia being the most common. Smokeless tobacco users, particularly those from rural and lower socioeconomic backgrounds, exhibited more severe mucosal lesions and significantly worse OHRQoL scores (p < 0.001). A clear association was observed between prolonged tobacco use, environmental disadvantage, and impaired oral health status.
Conclusions:
The findings indicate a significant burden of oral precancerous conditions among tobacco users in Northern India, influenced by both behavioral habits and environmental exposures. These results underscore the need for region-specific screening programs, oral health promotion, and community-based interventions to address the interrelated impact of tobacco use, poor living conditions, and quality of life.
