Improving Leukoplakia Follow-Up: Information Leaflets, Habit Cessation Counseling.

The rising incidence of oral cancer necessitates widespread implementation of preventive measures, particularly in resource-challenged settings where visual examination and patient education are more feasible. Addressing the reluctance of patients clinically diagnosed with leukoplakia and reinforcing the importance of follow-up care is imperative. The study aims to assess the impact of patient information leaflets (PILs) and habit cessation counseling (HCC) on clinically diagnosed patients with leukoplakia. The study included 60 clinically diagnosed cases of leukoplakia and was divided into 3 groups (20 participants each). Group 1 received an expert-designed PIL, group 2 had HCC, and group 3 received both PILs and HCC. All groups underwent follow-up assessments, including lesion reexamination and a structured questionnaire. Group 3 demonstrated the highest level of understanding and application of the information, as reflected in both their attitude and practice toward their habits, and group 2 did better than group 1. The combination of a PIL and an HCC can effectively support reluctant patients with leukoplakia, fostering habit cessation and promoting lifestyle modifications through increased awareness.