Prevalence of oral submucous fibrosis in South Kerala: A cross sectional study

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Original Article

Author Details : Anuna Laila Mathew*, Sunu Alice Cherian, Mahima James

Volume : 5, Issue : 2, Year : 2019

Article Page : 42-45

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.jooo.2019.012

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Abstract

Introduction: Oral submucous fibrosis is an oral precancerous condition found in the Asian subcontinent mostly India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Usually found among habitual gutkha, arecanut and pan chewers.
Aim: 1. Assess the prevalence of OSMF among patients visiting a dental college in South Kerala. 2. To evaluate the association between the prevalence of OSMF with the age, gender, type, frequency and duration of the habit.
Materials and Methods: We examined all the patients who visited the Department of Oral Medicine over a period of 24 months. Detailed history and clinical examination was performed. Study design was based on clinical stage, age group, duration, frequency and the type of habit.
Results: Out of the total 26476 patients examined 9345 were males and 17131 were females respectively. A total of 19 subjects were diagnosed with OSMF (0.07%). Mean age of the patients with OSMF was 48.63+14.2 with a male predilection of 78.9% and 21.1% females. OSMF was found to be more common (52.6%) in the age group of 41-60 years. Mild OSMF was more prevalent (47.4%) compared to moderate (42.1%) and severe (10.5%). Pan masala was used more than gutkha and the combination of gutkha and tobacco. There was no statistically significant association between the stages, type, frequency and duration of the habit. (p>0.005).
Conclusion: Our study revealed a prevalence of 0.07% of OSMF among patients visiting a dental school in South Kerala. Public awareness programs linked with oral premalignant condition and habits may control disease process.

Keywords: Oral precancer, Arecanut, Panmasala.

How to cite : Mathew A L, Cherian S A, James M , Prevalence of oral submucous fibrosis in South Kerala: A cross sectional study. J Oral Med Oral Surg Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2019;5(2):42-45

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