Smokeless tobacco- and quid-associated localized lesions of the oral cavity: A cross-sectional study from a dental institute.

Background: There is a well-established link between the use of smokeless tobacco (ST) and the development of oral cancer. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of tobacco use, quid use, and other adverse habits related to smoking and alcohol consumption on ST-induced localized lesions.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to examine the demographic data, frequency and contact duration of ST on the lesion, as well as to conduct a clinical evaluation of these parameters.

Material and methods: A total of 13,442 patients who had been experiencing oral and dental symptoms for a period of at least 6 months were screened. Of these, 334 patients were diagnosed with STor quid-induced localized lesions and had a positive history of ST or quid use. A structured questionnaire was employed to conduct interviews with participants regarding their use of ST and other adverse habits, including smoking and alcohol consumption. Other information related to the use of ST or quid and clinical findings were also recorded, along with the patients' demographic details. A statistical analysis was carried out using the χ2 test and the regression analysis.

Results: The overall prevalence of ST-induced localized lesions was found to be 2.48%. In the study population, the majority of participants (58.7%) reported a habit of using khaini, while 26.8% reported using gutkha. The study found significant differences in the severity of ST-induced localized lesions and contact duration, frequency of the habit, and the presence of additional habits such as smoking and/or alcohol consumption. Based on this study, we proposed a modified Greer and Poulson's classification of ST-induced lesions, dividing them into 4 clinical types.

Conclusions: Smokeless tobacco-induced localized lesions frequently remain asymptomatic, with patients unaware of their presence. Other adverse habits, including smoking and alcohol consumption, as well as increased ST contact duration were associated with the development of more severe ST-induced localized lesions.