Title: Prevalenceand factor associated with cancer and pre-cancerous condition in India: A hospital-based Study
Abstract:
Oral cancer is a major public health challenge in India, ranking as the second most common cancer among males and the fourth among females. This hospital-based study investigates the prevalence and associated risk factors of cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions in India, with a focus on oral lesions. The study, conducted at BJS Dental College from 2014 to 2024, involved 1,503 patients, of whom 1,424 presented with early lesions and 79 with late-stage conditions. The results indicate a significant association between tobacco use, betel nut chewing, alcohol consumption, and oral cancer development. Additionally, factors such as socioeconomic status, improper denture fit, and genetic predisposition were explored. The study highlights that early lesions were more frequently treated successfully with conservative therapies, while late-stage cases required biopsy and referral to tertiary cancer centers. The findings emphasize the rising trend of oral cancer, particularly in regions like Punjab’s Malwa belt, and underline the need for preventive measures, early diagnosis, and public health interventions to curb the increasing burden of oral malignancies.