Prevalence of recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAUs) in the population of Ludhiana

Abstract

Introduction: Recurrent aphthous ulcer (RAU) is one of the most common oral mucosal disorders characterized by recurrent and painful ulcerations on movable or nonkeratinized oral mucosa. It affects approximately 20% of the general population. These present as recurrent, multiple, small, round, or ovoid ulcers with circumscribed margins, having yellow or gray floors, surrounded by erythematous halos. Aims and Objectives: To compare the prevalence and occurrence of RAU among the age group from 20 to 80 years. To compare the prevalence and occurrence among the gender. To correlate the causes of the recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS). To check for tobacco and its role in the occurrence of RAS. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and a total of 600 questionnaire forms were distributed and filled by students (undergraduates and postgraduates), staff, skilled workers, and patients reporting to the department over a period of 3 years. Results and Discussions: In total, 71.1% had experienced oral aphthous ulcerations. When both the genders were compared, RAS more commonly affected females (60.33%) than males (39.67%). The regression coefficient for gender revealed that females were more prone to RAS than males. Conclusion: Understanding the prevalence and distribution of recurrent aphthous ulceration among the population of Ludhiana gives an indication of the section of people who suffer from the condition. Based on the results of our study, females were more commonly affected than males, and the second- and third-decades age groups were affected.