Prevalence of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders Among Tobacco Users in Kolkata: A Hospital-Based Study.

Introduction Tobacco consumption is a significant public health threat worldwide and a looming pandemic. World Health Organization data display that about five million people face premature death per year worldwide due to tobacco use. India is a leading nation among tobacco users in this regard. The aim of the present study was to determine the most prevalent tobacco consumption habit and the oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) found in such users with an assessment of awareness and change in various habits. Material and methods A cross-sectional study over a duration of six months was carried out, in which every patient visiting the hospital OPD was assessed and evaluated for tobacco-related habits. A detailed history of the duration and frequency of the habit, the type of tobacco product consumed, and the predominant reason for its consumption among males and females were recorded and evaluated. An oral examination was performed to determine the evidence of OPMDs. Subjects under the age of 13 years and with systemic/metabolic disorders with oral manifestations were excluded from the study. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using Stata Statistical Software, version 13.1 for Windows (released 2013 StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX). Results Data revealed a higher prevalence of tobacco consumption in males, with chewing tobacco followed by smoking and a mixed form of habit being predominant. Misri chewing was most common in females. Subjects in the 20-50 years age group were most commonly affected, with tobacco pouch keratosis being the most prevalent lesion followed by leukoplakia, with stress being a major causative factor for tobacco consumption. Conclusion The present study promulgated the prevalence of OPMDs in consumers of various kinds of tobacco products, which is highly valuable in the early detection of OPMDs. OPMDs remain unnoticed until advanced stages due to their asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic nature and due to a relative lack of awareness about the deleterious effects of tobacco usage despite an upsurge in tobacco cessation-related content on digital media. Thus, healthcare sector professionals can be appropriately guided to ensure efficient patient care at an early stage.