Early Detection Of Oral Cancer In Young Population While Assessing Oral Health Among Indian Population: An Original Research

Abstract

Aim

The purpose of the present research was to retrospectively evaluate characteristics for early detection of oral cancer amongst young Indian population.

Methodology

A retrospective analysis of the patients under the age of 35 years with oral cancer presented at our institution between 2010-2021, was carried out. The anatomical sites reviewed in this study included lip, buccal mucosa, upper and lower alveolus, hard palate, anterior 2/3 of tongue and floor of mouth. Variables analysed for each patient included age, sex, history of tobacco and alcohol abuse, history of any cancer in the first-degree family members etc. Statistical analysis was carried out with the date received.

Results

A total of 264 patients under the age of 35 years with oral cancer in the 11-year period from 2010-2021were retrospectively analysed. Tongue was the commonest site identified in 136 (52%) patients followed by buccal mucosa in 69 (26%), alveolus in 26 (10%), palate in 12 (4.5%), lip in 6 (2.3%), floor of mouth in 5 (1.9%) and other intraoral non-specified sites in 10 (3.8%).

Conclusion

Sensitivity of various early detetction methods was highest in case of toluidine dye -lugol’s iodine combination followed by VelScope and visual inspection. Prevention, early diagnosis, and timely treatment are critical aspects to tackle oral cancer-related burden in India.