Objectives: To assess the prevalence of oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) among industrial workers and evaluate their association with tobacco consumption. Methods: A six-month cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,000 industrial workers aged 28 years and above. Data on demographics, health status, and tobacco habits were collected using structured questionnaires. Clinical oral examinations were performed and suspected lesions were subjected to biopsy and histopathological evaluation. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and regression analysis to determine associations between tobacco use and OPMDs. Results: Among the study population, 13.4% exhibited oral lesions with a strong association with tobacco use (p < 0.05). Oral submucous fibrosis was predominantly observed among smokeless tobacco users, whereas leukoplakia and erythroleukoplakia were more common among smokers. Higher prevalence was observed among males and individuals aged 30–49 years. Dual tobacco users showed the highest odds of lesion development (OR = 5.75). Conclusions: The findings highlight a substantial burden of OPMDs among industrial workers and emphasize the need for targeted workplace screening and preventive strategies.

Oral cancer remains a significant public health concern globally, with varying prevalence rates across regions; however, its epidemiological profile in Saudi Arabia has not been comprehensively synthesized. This study systematically reviews and meta-analyzes the existing evidence to estimate the prevalence and associated risk factors of oral cancer in Saudi Arabia, thereby addressing a critical gap in the literature. We conducted a rigorous synthesis of available studies, employing random-effects models to account for heterogeneity and deriving pooled effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals. The meta-analysis revealed a significant association between demographic and risk factors and oral cancer, with an overall effect size of 1.02 (SE = 0.25, 95% CI [0.53, 1.51], z=4.11, p<1e^(-5)), indicating a substantial impact of these variables on disease prevalence. The findings highlight the importance of targeted public health interventions, particularly for high-risk populations, and underscore the need for further research to elucidate regional variations and temporal trends. This study provides a robust evidence base for policymakers and clinicians, emphasizing the urgency of early detection and prevention strategies in Saudi Arabia.

Objective.This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of oral cancer and potentially malignant disorders among older adults in each region of Thailand, based on screening data between 2020 and 2024.Methods.Oral cancer screening data of patients aged 60 years between October 2020 and July 2024 were obtained from (1) the Health Data Center (community screening) and ( 2) Cancer Registry reports and Thai Cancer Base (hospital screening).Descriptive statistics were provided, and spatial analysis was performed.Results.Of 1 614 549 older adults screened, 540 (0.03%) had signs suggestive of oral cancer or potentially malignant disorders.The highest prevalence was observed among individuals aged 60 to 65 years.The incidence of oral cancer reached 8 per 100 000 among men and 4 per 100 000 among women.Tongue cancer was the most prevalent, followed by cancer of the floor of the mouth and lip cancer.The highest incidences of oral cancer were reported in the central and southern regions. Conclusions.Although the prevalence of oral cancer and potentially malignant disorders was low, the screening programme facilitates early intervention.Dental health education, regular oral evaluation, and effective referral may reduce late-stage diagnoses, while region-specific surveillance and data-informed planning support efficient resource allocation.

The complex bidirectional relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and oral cancer (OC) denotes that metabolic dysfunction and malignancy intersect at molecular, cellular, and systemic levels. This state-of-the-art review analyzes the most recent literature data on the multiple interconnected pathways linking DM and OC, including hyperinsulinemia/IGF-1 signaling, chronic hyperglycemia-induced cellular damage, persistent inflammation, immune dysfunction, and oral microbiota dysbiosis. These mechanisms create a permissive environment for oral carcinogenesis while simultaneously impairing the body's natural tumor surveillance systems. Key molecular networks explored include the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, AGE-RAGE interactions, NF-κB signaling, the p53 tumor suppressor pathway, and HIF-mediated responses. Clinical evidence demonstrates that patients with diabetes have higher OC prevalence (250 per 100,000 patients) and significantly increased mortality (HR of 2.09) compared to non-diabetics. The review highlights metformin as the most promising anti-diabetic agent for OC management, showing anti-tumor effects through mTOR inhibition. Novel therapeutics, such as GLP-1 agonists, particularly semaglutide, may be helpful but require further clinical validation. Understanding the shared molecular pathways enables the development of integrated therapeutic strategies that target both conditions simultaneously, and it supports effective screening programs, personalized prevention strategies, and optimized multidisciplinary management approaches for this high-risk patient population.

Introduction: Indonesia faces a severe but poorly quantified epidemic of oral cancer (OC) and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs), driven by culturally endemic habits of kretek (clove cigarette) smoking and betel quid chewing. The absence of robust, large-scale epidemiological data has critically hampered the development of targeted public health interventions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of OC and OPMDs and to quantify their association with these specific cultural practices in a large, geographically diverse Indonesian population. Methods: A multi-center, cross-sectional study was conducted across the Indonesian archipelago, enrolling 17,850 adults aged ≥30 years through a stratified, multi-stage cluster sampling design at community primary health centers (Puskesmas). Participants completed a structured questionnaire and underwent a standardized oral examination by calibrated dental professionals. All statistical analyses, including bivariate tests and multivariable logistic regression, were performed using survey-specific methods to account for the complex sampling design (stratification, clustering, and weighting) to produce nationally representative estimates. Results: The overall, nationally-weighted prevalence of the combined OC/OPMD outcome was 5.7% (95% CI: 5.2% - 6.2%). The prevalence was 4.9% for OPMDs and 0.8% for OC. After adjusting for confounders in a survey-weighted multivariable logistic regression model, current kretek smoking (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 6.15; 95% CI: 4.98 - 7.59) and current betel quid chewing (AOR: 9.22; 95% CI: 7.31 - 11.63) were the most powerful factors associated with the presence of OC/OPMDs. A significant, non-linear dose-response relationship was observed for both habits. Conclusion: The burden of oral cancer and its precursors in Indonesia is substantial and is overwhelmingly associated with the culturally embedded habits of kretek smoking and betel quid chewing. These findings provide definitive, population-level evidence underscoring the urgent necessity for culturally-tailored public health strategies focused on cessation, regulation, and systematic early detection to mitigate this preventable cancer epidemic.

Global Prevalence Of Oral Cancer Among Elderly People

Oral cancer is classified as a major global public health problem, which is linked to a number of risk factors such as alcohol use, tobacco use, and poor oral hygiene habits. People who are better aware of the risk factors for oral cancer, for example, are more likely to take preventative measures and seek prompt medical assistance. Lack of education and awareness among the public, particularly among medical professionals who are crucial to early identification and prevention, contributes to the prevalence of oral cancer. Aims & Objectives: This study seeks to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of Libyan medical and dental students regarding oral cancer, highlighting areas where educational interventions may be required. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect data from a segment of the Libyan population and took place in Benghazi, Libya, from March 2024 to December 2024. A closed-ended questionnaire was given to the participants. The questionnaire consisted of 10 items, including segments on knowledge (5 questions), behavior (5 questions), and attitude (2 questions). The questionnaire was answered online via Google Forms. A total of 230 participants have completed the survey; out of these participants, 171 were selected. 94% of the respondents indicated that they were aware of oral cancer, while only 68% reported knowledge of the various risk factors associated with the disease. When assessing their own knowledge concerning the prevention and detection of oral cancer, 129 respondents felt sufficiently knowledgeable, while 42 expressed a lack of confidence. In conclusion, Libyan medical and dental undergraduate students show a good level of knowledge and awareness of oral cancers; there are a few gaps in their understanding of risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures. These findings suggest that universities must prioritize the education of oral cancer risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures.

Epigallocatechin gallate with nobiletin as a novel combination therapy to induce autophagy and apoptosis in oral cancer.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the temporal trend and spatial distribution of oral cancer cases in Brazil, and to evaluate the relationship between oral cancer cases and socioeconomic conditions.MethodsData on oral cancer cases, between 2013 and 2019, were extracted from the Painel‐Oncologia website, and the socioeconomic indicators selected were Municipal Human Development Index and Social Vulnerability Index. The endpoints were late diagnosis (staging III and IV) and delay in treatment (>60 days), along with oral cancer prevalence. Spearman's correlation was done between oral cancer cases and Municipal Human Development Index/ Social Vulnerability Index. Temporal trends were evaluated using a segmented linear regression model. As for spatial analysis, global and local Moran indices were applied, together with spatiotemporal scan statistics, to detect risk clusters.ResultsIn the period studied, there was a prevalence of 5.3 oral cancer cases/100,000 inhabitants. A significant inverse correlation was found with the Social Vulnerability Index, and a direct correlation linking the Municipal Human Development Index and oral cancer cases, delayed treatment, and diagnosis cases too. An increasing trend of oral cancer prevalence rate and a stable trend of delayed diagnosis and treatment cases were observed in the country. There was a concentration of oral cancer cases in the South and Southeast regions. A high‐risk oral cancer cluster was identified covering the South and Southeast regions, and part of the Midwest region and four secondary clusters of delayed treatment cases in the Northeast region.ConclusionThere was no short‐term improvement in data related to oral cancer in Brazil, since the prevalence trend was increasing and there was a correlation with socioeconomic conditions.

Oral cancer affects the mucosal epithelium located within the oral cavity. The prevalence of oral cancer is projected to increase by ~40% by 2040, leading to a subsequent rise in mortality rates. Oral carcinogenesis is complex and multifactorial and numerous signaling pathways are involved in disease development. Deubiquitination is commonly involved in the post-translational process of proteins, and serves a key role in tumorigenesis and cancer development. The present review aims to discuss the function of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) in oral cancer, with a particular focus on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The present review also aims to investigate the functional mechanisms, tumorigenic regulation and therapeutic targets of DUBs in OSCC, which may potentially provide a novel theoretical basis for the utilization of DUBs as molecular targets in the treatment of OSCC in the future.

ABSTRACTBackground:India continues to face the pressing problem of oral cancer, especially among the rural population, which has inadequate healthcare facilities. Like every other type of cancer, oral cancer can be treated successfully if diagnosed at an early stage. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a community-based oral cancer screening program employing portable fluorescence spectroscopy in rural Madhya Pradesh, India, with a focus on its feasibility and diagnostic accuracy in a resource-constrained setting.Methods:This cross-sectional study was conducted across 20 villages in rural Madhya Pradesh. Participants aged 30–65 years were recruited through community health camps and awareness campaigns, resulting in a total of 584 participants. Oral examinations were performed by trained healthcare workers, and any suspicious lesions were further evaluated using a portable fluorescence spectroscopy device. Histopathological diagnoses obtained through biopsies served as the gold standard for comparison.Results:The prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) was 12.8%, and the prevalence of oral cancer was 3.1%. Portable fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated a sensitivity of 88.2% and specificity of 92.6% for detecting OPMDs. For oral cancer detection, the sensitivity was 90.0%, and the specificity was 94.1%. The positive predictive value was 78.9% for OPMDs and 82.4% for oral cancer, while the negative predictive value was 96.3% and 97.5%, respectively.Conclusions:This community-based oral cancer screening program using portable fluorescence spectroscopy proved to be a valuable tool for the early detection of oral cancer and OPMDs in a rural setting. The program has the potential to improve oral cancer management along with the device on account of its ease of use and portability, especially in low resource regions. In addition, the findings of this study suggest that such technologies can also be incorporated within existing community health initiatives, enhancing reach and facilitating timely treatment. Further research is warranted to assess the long-term impact of this screening program on oral cancer mortality and morbidity.

Abstract Introduction: Globally, oral cancer remains a non-communicable debilitating disease of major public health concerns in Africa and other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). South Africa has the highest incidence and prevalence of oral cancer in Africa. More than 90% of all oral cancer are oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Factors such as the aggressive nature of the disease among Africans, late diagnosis, and access to and limited healthcare resources have contributed to the growing burden of OSCC in Africa and other LMICs. Exosomes play a major intercellular communication role due to their ability to transmit their cargo of proteins, nuclei acids, and lipids from one cell to another. Aim: The study is focused at investigating the role of salivary exosome cargo as diagnostic biomarkers for OSCC in a South African population. Methodology: Saliva samples were collected from 10 OSCC patients and 5 healthy individuals that consent to be part of the study. Exosomes were isolated from all saliva samples. Characterization of exosomes size and concentration was done using NanoSight NS300. Exosomes samples were also characterized using transmission electron microscope. Results: Salivary exosomes from OSCC patients were found to significantly have higher concentration and size than those from healthy individuals. There are no significant differences in size and concentration of exosomes between male and female OSCC patients. ROC analysis showed a maximal sensitivity (100%) and specificity (80%) (AUC of 0.98) at cut-off of 1.99e+9 particles/ml. Conclusion: Our study showed the potential uses of salivary exosomes morphological characteristic as diagnostic biomarker tool for OSCC. Citation Format: Dada Oluwaseyi Temilola, Manogari Chetty. The role of salivary exosomal cargo as diagnostic biomarker for oral squamous cell carcinoma among South African population [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 697.

Oral cancer presents substantial challenges to global health due to its elevated mortality rates. Approximately 90% of these malignancies are oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). A significant contributor to the prevalence of oral cancer is the difficulty in detecting cancerous biomarkers, further exacerbated by socioeconomic disadvantages and late-stage diagnoses. Given the critical nature of oral cancer, the early detection of biomarkers is essential for reducing mortality rates. This study investigates the application of microRNA-31 (miRNA-31) as a biomarker for the electrochemical detection of oral cancer, recognizing the considerable potential that microRNAs have demonstrated in cancer screening and diagnosis. The methodology employed includes the use of a glassy carbon electrode modified with graphene and a molecular tethering agent designed to enhance sensitivity and specificity. The biosensor exhibited a limit of detection of 10− 11 M (70 pg/mL or 6.022 × 106 copies/µL) in buffer and 10− 10 M (700 pg/mL or 6.022 × 107 copies/µL) in diluted serum for the complementary target miRNA-31 using the Six Sigma method. The efficacy of this biosensor was further validated through specificity studies utilizing a non-complementary miRNA in both buffer and human serum samples. The electrochemical biosensor displayed exceptional performance and high sensitivity in detecting miRNA-31, confirming its role as an innovative sensor for the non-invasive diagnosis of oral cancer. Furthermore, the proposed biosensor demonstrates several advantages over current methodologies, including reduced detection time, and cost-effective reagents.Graphical

While the correlation between cancer and air pollutants is well-established, research on the delayed effects of NO2 on oral cancer remains limited. We collected data on nitrogen dioxide (NO2) along with diagnosed cases of oral cancer in Guangxi, China, and analyzed the correlation between exposure to NO2 and the prevalence of oral cancer. The study included 1,841 participants diagnosed with oral malignancies, consisting of 1,179 males (64.0%) and 662 females (36.0%), with a mean age of 55.9 ± 14.0 years. The NO2 concentration is 20.2 ± 10.4 μg/m3. The highest cumulative effects of NO2 exposure were observed at a 3-year cumulative lag, with a relative risk (RR) of 1.115 (95% CI: 1.102-1.128). For males, the most pronounced effect of NO2 also occurred at a 3-year lag (RR = 1.110, 95% CI: 1.094-1.127). Similarly, among females, the significant cumulative impact of NO2 was found at a 3-year lag (RR = 1.123, 95% CI: 1.101-1.145). For individuals under 60 years of age, the cumulative impact of NO2 peaked at the same 3-year lag (RR = 1.102, 95% CI: 1.085-1.120). For individuals aged 60 and above, the highest cumulative impact of NO2 was also detected at a 3-year lag (RR = 1.132, 95% CI: 1.112-1.152). For the group with normal BMI, the highest cumulative effect of NO2 exposure was also observed at the 3-year lag period (RR = 1.289, 95% CI: 1.217-1.365), consistent with the findings for other groups. These findings suggest a significant lagged effect of long-term NO2 exposure on oral cancer, with varying associations between NO2 and oral cancer across different ages and genders.

Do the recorded cases of oral cancer correspond to the actual numbers in India: The necessity of properly designed screening and surveying initiatives.

The pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMMCF) remains a crucial reconstructive tool for large oro-facial defects, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of oral cancer. It offers a reliable, cost-effective solution for oncological defects, with minimal complications. Surgeons must consider factors like flap design, proximity to the defect, and patient characteristics to optimize outcomes. Training in PMMCF is essential for head and neck surgeons. PMMCF continues to be invaluable in resource-limited settings, given the case burden on surgical teams.

Objectives: Oral cancer (OC) poses a growing health concern in Pakistan, emerging as the second-most diagnosed cancer in the country. The escalating incidence and mortality rates of OC place considerable strain on the health system. This study aims to delineate the factors contributing to the elevated incidence of OC in Pakistan. Methods: A hospital-based case-control study involving 688 participants above 18 years old was conducted. Participants were evaluated for reported OC risk factors. Results: Findings indicate a heightened susceptibility among men (71.5%) to develop OC in Pakistan. Factors contributing to OC include advancing age (AOR 1.12, 95% CI 1.13-1.18, p=0.001), low SES (61.4%), and limited education. Significant risk was associated with chewing tobacco (niswar) AOR 6.83, 95% CI 2.67-17.45, p=0.001), areca nut (AOR 4.99, 95% CI 1.51-16.45, p=0.001), and pan (AOR 7.90, 95% C1 3.19-19.59, p=0.001). Parental consanguinity increased OC incidence (AOR 4.72, 95% CI 1.12-4.14, p=0.02). Physical activity had no association with OC (AOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.23-0.75, p=0.004). Excessive sunlight exposure appeared to be associated with OC (AOR 0.15; 95% CI: 0.08-0.28, p-value: 0.001). At the same time, cigarette smoking and alcohol are not significant factors for the development of OC in Pakistan. Conclusion: The study underscores the elevated prevalence of OC among Pakistani men, attributable in part to lower literacy rates and inadequate access to healthcare facilities. The implementation of targeted prevention strategies informed by these epidemiological insights is essential for mitigating the burden of OC in the region.

Introduction : Oral cancer represents a significant public health challenge due to its high morbidity and mortality, especially in populations with associated risk factors. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with the purpose of identifying risk factors associated with premalignant lesions of the oral cavity in patients attended at the Bernardo Posse Polyclinic, Havana, between 2020 and 2024. The analysis included variables such as age, sex, anatomical location of the lesions and risk habits, such as smoking, alcoholism, inadequate diet and predisposing diseases. Early identification of these factors can contribute significantly to the prevention of oral cancer.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in a sample of 25 patients of both sexes with evident premalignant lesions in the buccomaxillofacial complex. The variables studied included age, sex, anatomical location of the lesions and risk factors (smoking, alcoholism, diet and predisposing diseases). Data were collected through surveys and clinical records, and descriptive statistical analyses were applied to determine the absolute and relative frequencies of the variables. The sample was selected from the oral cancer registry of the Bernardo Posse Polyclinic.Results: The analysis showed that 40% of premalignant lesions were located on the tongue, this being the most affected anatomical site. The age group with the highest prevalence was 35-59 years, with a significant incidence of smoking (50%) and alcohol consumption (50%) as main risk factors. A higher proportion of female patients (56%) compared to male patients (44%) was observed, which differs from global trends in which men tend to be more affected. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of identifying risk factors associated with premalignant lesions in the oral cavity, such as smoking, alcoholism and inadequate dietary habits. The results underline the need to implement educational and prevention programs aimed at at-risk populations, especially in the age groups with the highest incidence, to improve early detection and reduce the prevalence of oral cancer. Comprehensive care and the promotion of healthy habits are essential to address this problem

Introduction : Oral cancer represents a significant public health challenge due to its high morbidity and mortality, especially in populations with associated risk factors. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with the purpose of identifying risk factors associated with premalignant lesions of the oral cavity in patients attended at the Bernardo Posse Polyclinic, Havana, between 2020 and 2024. The analysis included variables such as age, sex, anatomical location of the lesions and risk habits, such as smoking, alcoholism, inadequate diet and predisposing diseases. Early identification of these factors can contribute significantly to the prevention of oral cancer.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in a sample of 25 patients of both sexes with evident premalignant lesions in the buccomaxillofacial complex. The variables studied included age, sex, anatomical location of the lesions and risk factors (smoking, alcoholism, diet and predisposing diseases). Data were collected through surveys and clinical records, and descriptive statistical analyses were applied to determine the absolute and relative frequencies of the variables. The sample was selected from the oral cancer registry of the Bernardo Posse Polyclinic.Results: The analysis showed that 40% of premalignant lesions were located on the tongue, this being the most affected anatomical site. The age group with the highest prevalence was 35-59 years, with a significant incidence of smoking (50%) and alcohol consumption (50%) as main risk factors. A higher proportion of female patients (56%) compared to male patients (44%) was observed, which differs from global trends in which men tend to be more affected. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of identifying risk factors associated with premalignant lesions in the oral cavity, such as smoking, alcoholism and inadequate dietary habits. The results underline the need to implement educational and prevention programs aimed at at-risk populations, especially in the age groups with the highest incidence, to improve early detection and reduce the prevalence of oral cancer. Comprehensive care and the promotion of healthy habits are essential to address this problem

Globally, oral cancer is still a major public health concern, with different lifestyle and socioeconomic variables influencing its occurrence. This study compared the prevalence and risk factors of oral cancer among students from private colleges in Pakistan, identifying patterns and variations in risk profiles within this group. This six-month cross-sectional research was carried out at Azra Naheed Dental College and Rahbar College of Dentistry, two private dental institutions in Lahore, Pakistan. Four hundred and thirty students between the ages of 18 and 30 who were split evenly between the two schools made up the sample. A well-structured questionnaire including lifestyle variables, oral cancer awareness, and demographic information was used to gather data. Dental practitioners with training conducted clinical oral exams to look for any indications of oral lesions. The demographic variables were summed up using descriptive statistics, and the relationships between risk factors and the prevalence of oral cancer were assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis. A p-value of less than 0.05 was used to define statistical significance. Among the 430 students, 215 were from Azra Naheed Dental College and 215 were from Rahbar College of Dentistry; 12 students (5.58%) at Azra Naheed and 19 students (8.84%) at Rahbar College were found to have oral lesions. Regarding lifestyle factors, 69 students (32.22%) at Azra Naheed and 62 students (28.89%) at Rahbar College reported current tobacco use. Regular betel quid chewing was observed in 93 students (43.33%) at Azra Naheed compared to 77 students (35.56%) at Rahbar College. Dietary habits showed that 148 students (68.89%) at Azra Naheed and 138 students (64.44%) at Rahbar College consumed a diet high in processed foods. The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified significant risk factors for oral cancer, including current tobacco use (odds ratio (OR) = 2.15, p = 0.001), regular betel quid chewing (OR = 2.87, p < 0.001), and a diet high in processed foods (OR = 1.62, p = 0.021). The research identifies important risk factors for oral cancer among dentistry college students, pointing to the need for focused preventative and educational initiatives to address lifestyle-related concerns.