Prevalence and biosocial determinants of Potentially Malignant Disorders of Oral Soft Tissue in slum population of Western Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer ranks in the top three of all cancers in India, which accounts for over thirty per cent of all cancers reported in the country and oral cancer control is quickly becoming a global health priority. Early diagnosis is the most important single factor in combating oral cancer and improving the survival rate. Aim and objectives: To find out the prevalence of potentially malignant disorders (PMDs) of oral soft tissues in above 15 years age population and to find the biosocial determinants of PMDs of oral soft tissues. Material & Methods: Community based, cross sectional study, carried out in a randomly selected urban slum area of Agra, among 1254 individuals of more than 15 years of age. The individuals were interviewed, and oral cavity was examined to detect the PMDs of oral soft tissues. Results: The prevalence of PMDs of oral soft tissues was found 16.45%. Prevalence of sub mucosal fibrosis (SMF) is 10.61% followed by leukoplakia (5.11%) and erythroplakia 0.72%. Prevalence of PMDs in males is 23.22% which is much higher than females 8.24%. Prevalence of SMF is much higher in illiterates 19.01%. Unemployed individuals showed lower prevalence of PMDs i.e. 14.73% in comparison to semiskilled laborers 47.56%. PMD prevalence is higher in lower social classes 17.55%. Conclusion: Prevalence of PMDs is higher in males and illiterates. PMDs of oral soft tissues showed statistically significant increase in prevalence with advancing age. Statistically significantly lower prevalence is found in unemployed and housewives. Prevalence is high among laborers and lower social classes.