Incidence And Prevalence Of OSMF Cases: A Original Research

Abstract

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is now globally accepted as an Indian disease. It has one of the highest rates of malignant transformation among potentially malignant oral lesions and conditions, therefore, a cause of concern for oral healthcare professionals. The present study aims to evaluate the prevalence of OSMF among betel nut chewers in different age groups in patients visiting Dental College and Hospital.

Materials and Methods: A total of 250 patients of OSMF out of 860 patients visiting the OPD visiting the dental outpatient clinic of the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology. A detailed case history and clinical examination was carried out under visible light. The diagnosis of OSMF was based on difficulty in opening the mouth and associated blanched oral mucosa, with palpable fibrous bands. Other diagnostic features included burning sensation, salivation, tongue protrusion, habits, and associated malignant changes. Study was done on the basis of age group, habit duration, frequency of habit, and type of habit. Simple correlation analysis was performed.

Results: Of the 250 cases of OSF studied, betel nut chewing habits was maximum in number in both gender and grade II OSMF cases were more in muber in both  group.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of OSMF requires significant awareness and management of these lesions among general population. Primary healthcare professionals and dentists should be knowledgeable and familiar with the etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of these lesions.