BACKGROUND

/purpose: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent malignancy in Taiwan, with sex-specific variations in risk factors, clinical presentation, and prognosis. This study aimed to evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes of a larger cohort of male and female OSCC patients treated at National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) between 2012 and 2022.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 240 de-identified, sex- and age-matched OSCC patients was conducted, analyzing clinicopathological characteristics, lifestyle habits (alcohol, betel quid, smoking), and survival outcomes.

RESULTS

Gender differences were observed in tumor location, with males more likely to have buccal mucosa cancer and females more frequently diagnosed with tongue cancer. Survival analysis showed no significant sex differences in overall survival (OS), but oral habits, oral ulcer, xerostomia and menopause significantly influenced female prognosis. Multivariate analysis identified age, tumor location, and oral habits as independent factors affecting survival.

CONCLUSION

Sex-specific factors, including age, lifestyle, and oral health conditions, contribute to OSCC prognosis. Tailored therapeutic strategies are necessary to address these gender-based disparities and improve survival outcomes for all OSCC patients.