Screening the silent: Oral potentially malignant disorders burden among rural communities of Villianur, Puducherry, South India

Background Oral cancer ranks as the 16 th most common cancer worldwide. In India, it is the most common cancer among males and the fourth most common among females. Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders have a malignant transformation rate of approximately 7 to 10%. According to the National Family Health Survey (2019–2021), only 0.4% of women and none of the men aged 30–49 years in rural areas have undergone oral cavity examination for oral cancer. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of suspected Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders and assess associated factors among adults in Villianur Commune, Puducherry. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 196 permanent residents aged ≥ 18 years using multistage sampling. Written informed consent was obtained. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, and adverse oral habits were collected using a validated self-structured questionnaire. Visual oral examination followed by toluidine blue staining was performed to confirm potentially malignant disorders. Results The prevalence of suspected Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders was 14.28%. The most common conditions were Leukoplakia (5.61%), Lichen planus (3.06%), Erythroplakia (2.55%), and Oral Submucous Fibrosis (2.04%). Prevalence was significantly higher among men (20.17%) than women (6.09%, p = 0.007). The buccal mucosa was the most affected site (35.7%). Toluidine blue staining confirmed 78.6% of clinical findings. Tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, and low socioeconomic status were significant risk factors. Conclusions Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders are prevalent in Villianur and are strongly associated with male gender, tobacco use, and poor oral hygiene. Community awareness and routine primary healthcare screening are essential for early detection and prevention of oral cancer.