Targeted Screening Programme For Early Detection Of Oral Malignant And Potentially Malignant Lesions Using The Oral Rub And Rinse Technique Among Truck Drivers in Dakshina Kannada District − A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Early detection of oral malignant and potentially malignant disorders is very important in reducing morbidity and mortality. Truck drivers are transport workers who transport goods over long distances in trucks are at a very “high risk” due to various factors. The aim of this study was to detect potentially malignant and malignant oral lesions using the oral rub and rinse technique among truck drivers in Dakshina Kannada. Materials and Methods: An oral cancer screening program among truck drivers was conducted in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. Data regarding socio-demographic details, history of tobacco use were collected. Oral cancer screening was carried out. Exfoliative cytology was done using the oral rub and rinse technique if red/white lesions were present and biopsies were taken in case of ulcerated lesions. Descriptive statistics was used in this study in the form of number and percentage. Results: A total of 964 subjects were screened for potentially malignant and malignant oral lesions. Most of the patients (83%) were current tobacco users. Of the 964 subjects, 148 had red/white lesions. Results of exfoliative cytology showed that 23% smears were Class I, 24% were Class II, 31% were Class III, and 16% were Class IV smears; 6% smears were unsatisfactory. Tissue biopsy was taken for 23 patients with ulcerated lesions − 2 were confirmed for oral squamous cell carcinoma and 21 had dysplasia. Conclusion: High-risk targeted screening for oral cancer can help identify oral precancerous lesions at an early stage.