Risk factors of Oral cancer- A hospital based case control study

BACKGROUND: Oral cancer is a highly prevalent malignancy in Pakistan. Among various risk factors associated with this neoplasm, habits such as smoked and smokeless tobacco usage, betel quid, and betel nut consumption are the major culprits in our society. In the present study, we aimed to ascertain prevalent risk factors for OC in our population and to compare our findings with healthy controls to establish their significance. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A hospital-based case control study was conducted at Dow University of Health Sciences, Pakistan from January 2015 – September 2016. Information pertaining to unhealthy oral habits was obtained from 62 oral cancer patients (cases) and 62 healthy controls on specifically designed proforma by the principal investigator. RESULTS: Smokeless tobacco is strong, independent risk factor for oral cancer development in our study population. Buccal mucosa is the predominantly affected site (71%) which corresponds with high smokeless tobacco use. All studied habits increase risk of oral cancer as demonstrated by high odds ratio. CONCLUSIONS: Despite advancement in our knowledge and understanding of carcinogenic potential of these hazardous substances not enough efforts have been put forth to effectively control their widespread sale and consumption, particularly by the youth in our society. Key words:Betel Quid, Gutka, Oral Cancer Risk, Smokeless Tobacco.