Prevalence of Potentially Malignant Disorders in Tobacco Consuming Population: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

A BSTRACT Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) among individuals in the northern population of India who have a habit of using tobacco. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of residents over 18 years old from that specific area. Every patient included in the study had been diagnosed with OPMDs. A self-structured questionnaire was developed, which included details about the participant’s socio-demographic characteristics, dietary habits, medical history, oral health, adverse habits, and clinical profile. Results: Out of the entire study population, 60 patients were found to have OPMD. The prevalence rates for leukoplakia, erythroplakia, and oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) were 3.90%, 0.10%, and 4.02%, respectively. Significant factors among all tobacco users included the type of tobacco, age group, and gender, after adjusting for baseline characteristics and risk factors. Conclusion: There was a significant association found between the use of smokeless tobacco and OPMDs.