Scientific Mapping and Knowledge Evolution of Global Areca Research

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Areca, a widely used psychoactive substance, has been classified as a Group I carcinogen due to its strong association with oral potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive bibliometric overview of global areca-related research, elucidating its publication trends, intellectual structure, and emerging research frontiers. METHODS: Publications from 1985 to 2024 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. Bibliometric analyses were performed to visualize publication outputs, regional and institutional contributions, journal distributions, co-cited references, and keyword evolution. Temporal and network analyses were conducted to identify major research clusters and developmental trajectories. RESULTS: A total of 2882 articles from 91 regions and 2865 institutions were analysed. Global publications have increased markedly over the past decade. Among the leading contributing regions are India, Taiwan, China, and the Chinese mainland. Co-citation and keyword analyses revealed several major thematic domains: areca toxicity, oral submucous fibrosis, oral cancer, and synergistic effects with tobacco and alcohol. Recent trends indicate a shift from epidemiological and clinical characterization toward mechanistic and translational studies, focusing on fibrosis and carcinogenic signalling pathways. CONCLUSION: This study provides the comprehensive landscape of global areca research, outlining its intellectual evolution and emerging frontiers. Integrating multidisciplinary and international collaborations will be critical for advancing mechanistic understanding and guiding evidence-based prevention strategies. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: By elucidating the global research landscape of areca, this analysis offers a scientific foundation for developing targeted public health interventions and clinical strategies to mitigate areca-related oral diseases and carcinogenesis.