A study of epidemiological and clinical parameters of patients with oral cancer in a tertiary hospital

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer is the 3rd most common cancers in India. Tobacco is the most important risk factor. Increasing use of tobacco has made oral cancer a major public health issue. This study aims to get a profile of oral cancer in a tertiary hospital. Methods: This is a prospective study done from January 2014 to June 2015. 106 patients who were above the age of 18 who were previously untreated and biopsy proven were included. Epidemiological factors like age, sex, premalignant conditions, duration of symptoms, site of primary, clinical stage, level of metastases were studied.Results: Oral cancer was seen most in males 63(59.4%). It was most commonly seen in sixth decade of life. Betel nut was the most important risk factor. Oral sub mucous fibrosis was the most common premalignant condition. Tongue was the most common primary site. Clinically most patients presented in stage IV. Level I was the most involved lymph node station.Conclusions: Oral cancer to a great extent can be prevented. Public awareness and education from the grassroots about the ill effects of tobacco would go a long way in dealing with the health menace that oral cancer has become.