Prevalence of oral submucous fibrosis across diverse populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract

The aim is to offer a comprehensive overview of oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) prevalence and explore its epidemiological characteristics across various demographic groups and geographical locations, thereby helping the formulation of public health management policies. Studies reporting OSF prevalence were identified from electronic databases including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE via PubMed, EMBASE via OVID, and Web of Science. Pooled prevalence and quality assessment using the New-Ottawa Scale were conducted. Two reviewers screened and selected records, assessed quality, and independently extracted data. This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the PRISMA guidelines and was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024532975). Sixty-three studies, encompassing 11,434 cases in a total population of 769,860, reported OSF prevalence. The majority of studies (forty-one) were from India. The pooled prevalence of OSF across all populations was 3.0% (95% CI [2.8-3.2]%). In non-risk populations, risk populations, and consecutive dental patients, the pooled prevalence stood at 2.4% (95% CI [2.1-2.6]%), 4.5% (95% CI 3.5-5.6%), and 5.6% (95% CI [3.8-7.5]%), respectively. Subgroup analysis by age, sex, and geographical region revealed higher prevalence rates among those aged 50 and above (4.2%, 95% CI [3.0-5.4]%), males (3.3%, 95% CI [2.9-3.7]%), and in India (4.0%, 95% CI [3.7-4.3]%). As the exposure to risk factors exceeded 50% in the surveyed population, the prevalence of OSF notably increased. Most studies met satisfactory quality standards. Our research findings reveal a comprehensive prevalence of OSF across all populations at 3.0% (95% CI [2.8-3.2]%). And, existing evidence indicates a relatively low prevalence of OSF associated with tobacco, alcohol, and Areca (betel) nut use. However, further large-scale studies are recommended to validate these findings. Understanding the prevalence and distribution patterns of OSF may assist in healthcare intervention planning and alleviate the oral cancer burden associated with OSF.