Prevalence of precancerous lesions in an adult population

Abstract

Objectives: The present study aimed to identify the prevalence of precancerous lesions among an adult population in Kerala, India. Materials and Methods: A dental screening camp was organized in each district at two locations for two consecutive days to draw maximum participation of the community. All adult subject's attending the camp were initially screened for precancerous lesions using conventional light. An initial oral screening was done by two public health dentists and suspected cases were subjected to Identafi Oral cancer screening device and followed by histopathological evaluation. Results: The prevalence of oral precancerous lesions in the adult population of Kerala was 4.4%. Most of the lesions were associated with the use of tobacco followed by alcohol and spicy foods. Conclusion: The oral cancer detection device is an aid in detection of oral precancerous lesions.

Keywords

• leukoplakia
• lichen planus
• oral cancer
• smoking
• tobacco