Evaluation of Site And Location of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma among Patients Visiting at Tertiary Care Hospital Hyderabad

Abstract

Background: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC), a prevalent form of oral cancer, is marked by its aggressive nature and potential for metastasis. With a global five-year survival rate below 50%, the incidence of OSCC presents a significant public health challenge. The highest incidence rates are observed in Southeast Asia, correlating with the cultural practices of betel-quid and tobacco consumption. Objective: To evaluate the common sites and locations of OSCC among patients attending a tertiary care hospital in Hyderabad, with a view to identifying patterns that may guide early detection and targeted interventions. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 100 clinically diagnosed OSCC patients from Liaquat Medical University Hospital, Hyderabad, from January 2021 to February 2022. Following informed consent, detailed patient examinations were performed. Data on demographic variables, habits, and lesion sites and locations were collected using a structured proforma and analyzed using SPSS Version 25. The study adhered to the ethical guidelines of the Declaration of Helsinki. Results: The patient cohort exhibited a male predominance (77%) with a mean age of 44.28 ± 13.065 years. Betel Nut (47%) and Gutka (27%) were the most common habits among the patients. The tongue was the most frequently involved site (38%), followed by buccal/labial mucosa (27%) and gingiva (10%). OSCC was more commonly found in the maxilla (75%) than in the mandible (43%). Conclusion: The results indicate a higher occurrence of OSCC in the maxilla with the tongue being the most common site of manifestation. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational and preventive strategies at the primary healthcare level, emphasizing early diagnosis and intervention.